Miri MP calls for dedicated special needs centres

MIRI (Sept 2): Miri MP Chiew Choon Man has called for the establishment of dedicated full-day care centres for the special needs community in Miri and Sarawak.

Chiew said the proposal aims to address the need of support services for persons with disabilities (PwDs), having remarked that ‘no one should be left behind’.

“As a nation, we must take care of all segments of society, especially those in vulnerable groups that are often overlooked,” he said when officiating at the ‘Special Needs Community Fun Day’ programme at Piasau Boat Club here on Saturday.

Chiew highlighted one case he encountered last year, where a PwD had lost her parents and siblings who were tending to her care.

“It was a struggle in finding a suitable place to care for the individual, not only in Miri but throughout the state.

“Therefore, it is my wish to establish a care centre in Miri for the special needs community, and also across the state,” he said.

On the event, Chiew congratulated the organising committee comprising various non-governmental organisations for gathering to foster awareness for the special needs community in Miri.

“I propose the special needs community to showcase their talents to the public, so as to contribute to society and foster awareness.

“At the same time, we need strong community support for PwDs. Hopefully, in the future, they can be independent and take care of themselves,” he said.

Moreover, Chiew highlighted the role of policy makers in ensuring that the special needs community is part of government policies.

“For example, the wage subsidy policy exists to encourage employers to hire PwDs in their company.

“I propose this policy be amended so that more employers are willing to employ more PwDs,” he said.

Meanwhile, the ‘Special Needs Community Fun Day’ programme was organised by Empower Special Needs Community Miri.

Among the activities were art exhibitions, games, and talks by clinical psychologist Dr Diana Wee and psychiatrist Dr Ravivarma Rao Panirselvam.