Inclusive milestone: Autism-friendly playground unveiled

KUCHING: A significant stride towards inclusivity has been taken with the handing over of the site for the first Autism-Friendly Playground in Borneo and Malaysia to the contractor.

According to Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, the playground, estimated to cover around 4,000 square feet within Palmarium, MBKS Kuching Park, was selected by the Kuching Autistic Association.

He said that it was chosen due to its accessibility and strategic location, ensuring that it is easily visible and convenient for families.

“The project, budgeted at RM485,800, will be constructed by Jennifer Resources, supported by funding from government grants and MBKS,” he said.

He expressed hope that the project, which will commence on Aug 22, will be completed within four months, ideally before Christmas, so that the children can receive a festive gift for the holiday season.

“The contractor will commence construction, ensuring that every element is built to the highest standards, with the safety, happiness, and well-being of our children at the heart of the project,” he said.

He also mentioned that this will be the first project monitored by the newly established Kuching South Child Council member within our management.

Wee shared this information during the handover of the site to the awarded contractor, Jennifer Resources manager Jennifer Eran, at Palmarium, MBKS Kuching Park today (Aug 22).

Furthermore, he stated that the playground will include specialized features to accommodate the needs of neurodiverse children.

“The playground is more than just a play area but also a symbol of the community’s commitment to every child’s well-being,” he said.

He elaborated on autism, highlighting its complexities and the varied ways it affects each child uniquely.
“Some children with autism may not speak; some may have a few words, while others might communicate freely but still face challenges.

“Yet, despite these differences, there is a common thread that connects them, the struggle to socialize and interact in ways that many of us take for granted,” he said.

He aimed to address these challenges through the design of the special playground, offering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Additionally, this space considers the sensory sensitivities of children with autism, such as their reactions to noise, light, and textures, creating a safe and welcoming place for all to play and explore.

Meanwhile, Kuching Autistic Association president Dr Catherine Chen outlined the features of the autism-friendly playground, emphasizing adherence to the SAFE principles, which stand for Sensory-Rich, Autism Friendly, Fun, and Engaging.

“This design is aimed at boosting self-esteem, engaging the senses, providing a secure environment for children and adults with autism, and fostering family interaction,” she said.

She mentioned that key features will include perimeter fencing to prevent wandering or running away due to an overload of sensory input causing discomfort and to ensure user safety.

“A quiet area will also be built for resting and calming down, along with a variety of activities to support gross motor skills development, such as balancing activities, different heights, sizes, motion, spinning things, turning, climbing, jumping, and crawling.

“Shaded areas should be incorporated to prevent overheating,” she said.