SIBU: The new building of the Sibu Autism Association (SAA) is a complete facility that can meet almost the entire spectrum of needs of children with autism here.
Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said the facilities include 10 activity rooms, a spacious therapy room, a Snoezelen room, a sand therapy room as well as vocational training facilities.
“With 10 therapy rooms, more children with special needs can be assisted. In fact, I suggest that a water therapy room be added,” she told reporters after officiating at the new SAA building’s topping-out ceremony at Jalan Alan here on Monday afternoon (Aug 18).
According to Fatimah, the facility is very important to enable children with autism to receive support from an early age, starting from early assessment, diagnosis, intervention, education to preparation for independence.
“We want them to not only receive appropriate intervention, but also enjoy a dignified life. That is the wish of the parents and our goal,” she stressed.
She also praised SAA for not only focusing on children with autism, but also providing parent support groups and special training rooms.
“The biggest challenge is behaviour management. Sometimes ordinary people do not understand why a child with autism can hit their own head or roll on the floor. So parents also need help,” she said.
Meanwhile, SAA President David Ngu said the event also celebrated the 25th anniversary of the association’s establishment by three mothers.
“From that small step, SAA has now served over 1,000 children and families throughout Sarawak, and is even recognised as one of the most recognised autism organisations in Malaysia,” he said.
He added that the new building can accommodate up to 200 students with a focus on vocational training in culinary, agriculture, horticulture as well as future projects such as aquaponics and hydroponics.
“Our vision is beyond early intervention. We want to be a vocational training centre that provides students with autism with independent living skills and real job opportunities,” he said.
