Nearly 60,000 children with autism registered in Malaysia, says Alice Lau

SIBU (Feb 14): Nearly 60,000 children with autism had been registered in Malaysia as of May 2025, including 4,563 in Sarawak, and the numbers continue to rise, said Lanang MP Alice Lau.

Speaking at the Sibu Autistic Association (SAA) Lunar New Year celebration here on Friday night, she added that globally, one in 36 children is diagnosed with autism.

“This shows that autism is not rare, it affects many families,” she said.

Lau’s text-of-speech was read out by her private secretary Stanley Chiew, who represented her at the function.

She pointed out that part of the increase was due to better awareness and diagnosis, which was good progress.

“But some parents still delay diagnosis, hoping their child will “grow out of it,” or because of cultural beliefs or social pressure,” she added.

She stressed the importance of early intervention.

“Experts stress that early screening, education and therapy around age two are crucial for a child’s future.

“With proper guidance, children with autism can reach their potential and succeed in life.”

Earlier, she spoke about World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2, highlighting the importance of awareness, inclusion and early intervention.

“Every year on April 2, World Autism Awareness Day reminds us that a caring society is built on respect, understanding, and support between the autism community and everyone else,” she remarked.

She also emphasised that children with autism should be treated with equality, understanding and acceptance.

To this end, she commended SAA for their dedication.

“You support children, give hope to families and help society understand autism better.”

She noted that with the growing number of children diagnosed, SAA is building a new education centre to enable more children to receive early intervention and therapy.

“In the new year, I hope everyone will continue to work together to protect the rights of children with autism and special needs, so that they can grow up with love and understanding and find their place in society.”

Also present was SAA chairman David Ngu.