MIRI: A new One-Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC) branch is set to open here, bringing essential services closer to children with special needs in the region.
Deputy Minister for Women and Children Development Datuk Rosey Yunus made the announcement during an engagement session with the Village Security and Development Committee (JKKK) of Kampung Tudan at the Miri Islamic Complex yesterday (May 8).
The centre will provide vital services such as diagnosis, early intervention, therapy, and parental support for children up to 6 years with special needs.
“This initiative marks a vital milestone in our commitment to improving early childhood development, especially for children with special needs,” Rosey said.
Launched in 2020, OSEIC Sarawak has been successful, and its expansion to Miri will make it easier for families to access services and provide a key center for diagnosis and intervention for children in the area.
“Children, regardless of background or special needs, must be given an equal opportunity to develop holistically. By providing targeted early interventions, we ensure that children with special needs can reach their full potential,” Rosey said.
In addition to intervention services, the centre will also focus on supporting families through advocacy programs and training for parents, equipping them with the necessary emotional and practical skills to nurture and support their children effectively.
As of April 2025, OSEIC Miri has 68 children on its waiting list, with 33 from the B40 group, 20 from the M40 group, and 15 from the T20 group.
The government plans to establish seven more OSEIC centers under the 13th Malaysia Plan in areas such as Samarahan, Serian, Sri Aman, Betong, Bintulu, Kapit, Limbang, and Lawas, bringing the total number of centers in Sarawak to ten by 2030, alongside the existing ones in Kuching, Dalat, and Miri.
The Sarawak government also aims to transfer the management of the OSEIC centers to SeDidik, ensuring the continuity of early intervention programs and expanding accessibility for children transitioning to preschool education.
The OSEIC Sarawak Cawangan Miri is expected to open its doors in late 2025, with renovations to the designated building scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2025.
