KUCHING: Sarawak continues to strengthen its ecosystem for the development of children with special needs by placing emphasis on early intervention, alongside providing opportunities to identify and nurture their talents.
Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said this effort is important as every child and individual with special needs has their own talents and abilities.
She said that abilities, once uncovered, not only boost self-worth and confidence but also contribute to their wellbeing and enable them to live more independent and dignified lives.
“When their talents are identified and developed, we want them to enjoy what they are skilled at and earn an income through the skills they have built.
“With that income, they are able to build self-worth, increase confidence, become as independent as possible, become a useful member of society, and ultimately lead a dignified life.”
She said this when officiating at the opening of Estella Child Development Centre here today (Sept 15).
She added that society also needs to shift its perspective on children with special needs by focusing on their abilities rather than solely on their disabilities.
She said that opportunities to develop their talents would allow this group to demonstrate their capabilities in various fields, including art, sports and music.
On the achievements of Sarawak athletes at the 2026 Para SUKMA (Malaysia Games), Fatimah said it was a clear example that individuals with special needs are capable of achieving success when given the right opportunities and support.
“Although we did not manage to defend the overall championship at the 23rd Para SUKMA in Selangor, Sarawak’s athletes can still stand tall as we collected 52 gold, 32 silver and 54 bronze medals, totalling 138 medals.
“This is proof that when we look at ability rather than focusing solely on disability, we are able to identify the talents of these special children.”
Fatimah said the same approach needs to be applied in the development of children with special needs from an early stage, by identifying their inclinations and abilities.
“Once talent is identified and developed, opportunities need to be provided for them to showcase their abilities before progressing to a higher level.
“The ultimate goal is to ensure that persons with special needs are seen as individuals who have abilities, who can give their best and play an important role in society according to their own capabilities.”
