Fatimah leads delegation to Indonesia for social wellbeing insights

KUCHING:  Minister for Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah is on an  official visit to Bandung and Jakarta to learn from Indonesia’s best practices and experiences, which can be adapted to enhance Sarawak’s community service delivery.

The visit from July 1 to 4, aims to incorporate new insights to improve the Sarawak social wellbeing index, fostering social inclusiveness across the state.

Fatimah’s first stop was at Rumah Bintang Ceria, an early intervention centre for autistic children in Bandung, established nine years ago by Rita Yuriko and Rodgers Slahaan, focusing on using applied behaviour analysis (ABA) methods.

“The centre aims to prepare autistic children for mainstream schools and develop essential skills such as communication, socialisation, and daily living. It works on reducing maladaptive behaviours like hyperactivity, aggression, self-injury, and repetitive behaviours.

“During a briefing, Rita and Rodgers shared their personal experiences and knowledge on early intervention using ABA methods, inspired by their own autistic son, Anjuan Julio Slahaan,” Fatimah’s ministry said in a press release today.

Fatimah presents a memento to Abdul Gaos (4th left) at the Bandung City Education Department.

The delegation later visited the Bandung City Education Department, where they were briefed by head of Early Childhood Education Development Abdul Gaos.

The department is noted for its innovative educational approaches, strong community involvement, and student-centred focus. They are committed to enhancing the education sector through innovative partnerships and strategic initiatives.

Also joining the delegation is the ministry’s Deputy Minister Datuk Rosey Yunus, permanent secretary Datuk Felicia Tan, director of Welfare Department Semawi Mohammad, director of Women and Family Department Salmah Jobeli and CEO of SeDIDIK Sdn Bhd Ayub Dahari.