Sibu: Sibu MP Oscar Ling has called for early, well-structured support for children with autism, emphasising that timely placement in appropriate institutions can help them achieve their full potential.
He emphasised that schools, communities, and the public must embrace greater understanding and empathy to support autistic children, both in their education and everyday lives.
“Autism is becoming increasingly common, and educators today estimate that there may be at least one autistic child in every classroom,” he said.
Ling emphasised that autistic children should not be viewed with prejudice, but instead embrace them with a more inclusive attitude, allowing them to integrate more easily with their peers and the wider community.
“With the right guidance and learning environment, some autistic children are able to demonstrate exceptional intelligence and learning abilities, achieving remarkable academic and personal outcomes,” he said.
He was speaking at the appreciation dinner for the DASH for HOPE Charity Run, an initiative organised to raise funds for the construction of a new education building for the Sibu Autism Association (SAA).
The charity run, held on 27 December last year, attracted about 400 participants and reflected growing public awareness and community support for autism-related causes in Sibu.
Ling said initiatives such as DASH for HOPE not only provide vital resources for special education but also help foster a more caring and inclusive society.
“When schools, parents and the wider community work together, autistic children can be better integrated into society, develop their strengths and build meaningful and dignified futures,” he added.
He expressed hope that continued collaboration between government agencies, educators, non-governmental organisations and the public would further strengthen support systems for autistic children and their families, while promoting inclusive values across society.
