By DayakDaily Team
KOTA SAMARAHAN, Aug 22: Sarawak will add 24 new early education classes for children with autism in rural communities next year under the Community Development Department (KEMAS), bringing learning opportunities closer to home through the Tabika Tunas Istimewa programme.
Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang said the expansion was part of the ministry’s efforts to ensure children with autism, particularly those in rural areas, have better access to education.
She said Sarawak currently has only one autism class under KEMAS, but the number will increase to 24 next year.
“Recently, we launched Tabika Autisme, which is a major issue, especially in rural areas. They cannot afford to send their children to expensive private classes.
“So, next year we will expand to 24 classes across Sarawak. Nationwide, there will be 132 classes,” she said when met by reporters after the conclusion of the GEMA@KKDW Programme officiating ceremony at Halaman Samarahan today, as quoted by TVS.
Rubiah said greater public awareness was needed so that families knew about the education opportunities available for children with autism.
She said children with autism should not be left at home without access to education, as appropriate learning opportunities could help them develop skills and become more independent.
According to her, the initiative also takes into account the financial challenges faced by rural families, particularly those who cannot afford private autism classes.
“Private classes can cost around RM700 to RM1,000 for one child, which can be a burden for families,” she said.
Through Tabika Tunas Istimewa, children with autism will be able to learn in a suitable environment while developing essential skills and positive behaviour.
Rubiah said the expansion of autism classes was among the ministry’s new programmes introduced based on feedback and the needs of local communities.
She said the ministry identified these needs through its outreach efforts and its approach of going directly to the ground to engage with communities. — DayakDaily
