KUCHING: The Ministry of Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development is planning to set up a Special Needs Council.
In revealing this, Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah explained that the council would be holistic and integrated in looking after the welfare of special needs individuals from childhood to adulthood.
“While there is an Early Childhood Intervention Council at the national level, it is important for Sarawak to establish a council that is more comprehensive,” she said.
“As the state government strives for Sarawak to become a developed state by 2030, inclusivity for all is given due attention.
“Social inclusion is very important, especially for special needs children and individuals as they are part and parcel of the community.
“We want to empower our special needs children and individuals to live a dignified existence”
Fatimah was speaking at a press conference after officiating at the Gifted Art Exhibition ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening at Plaza Merdeka today (Sept 8).
She revealed that brainstorming sessions and discussions would be held to look at the council’s objectives and focus areas.
The minister pointed out that Sarawak was very fortunate to have many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) whocj were advocating for the special needs.
“We will present the proposal for establishing this council to the Cabinet and once it is approved, we operate in an integrated and holistic manner.
“The council will function as a body that coordinates NGOs so that they will not work in silos.
“When we work together as a team, God willing, the outcomes will be even better,” she said.
She added that the council would also focus on advocacy so there would be more awareness on the needs and abilities of the special needs group.
“The council will also need to look at talent development because we want to nurture the talents and potentials that the special needs group have,” she said.
