Sibu group urges stronger inclusion for autism community

SIBU (April 3): In conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day 2026, the Sibu Autistic Association (SAA) joined the global community in affirming this year’s theme ‘Autism and Humanity — Every Life Has Value’.

Its president David Ngu Tai Giin said the association embraces the message through its local theme ‘Every Child a Hero: A Fairy-Tale of Abilities’.

“We believe every child with autism is not defined by deficits, but by abilities waiting to be discovered, nurtured and celebrated.

“Each child is a hero, not because life is easy but because they persist, grow and overcome in ways that often go unseen,” he said in a statement.

Ngu noted that Malaysia is increasingly recognising the needs of the autism community, with the Prime Minister highlighting autism support in national budget announcements, including allocations to establish more autism service centres nationwide.

“SAA is honoured to be selected as one of the NGO (non-governmental organisation) partners working alongside the government in this important effort.

“This reflects growing awareness that autism is not a marginal issue, but a national concern requiring long-term commitment,” he said.

However, he stressed that while policy progress is encouraging, meaningful change must also take place at the societal level.

Over the years, he said there have been improvements, including more early intervention programmes, trained educators and therapists, as well as initiatives such as job coach training and vocational preparation.

“But we must ask honestly — are we, as a society, ready to accept individuals with autism not just in classrooms, but in workplaces and daily life? Inclusion must not stop at the school gate,” he said.

Ngu added that society must evolve alongside individuals with autism, calling for inclusive schools, supportive employers and communities that prioritise acceptance over stigma.

“Without acceptance, all training efforts will eventually meet a ceiling,” he said.

He also highlighted global figures such as Temple Grandin and Greta Thunberg as examples of how individuals with autism can contribute meaningfully when given opportunities.

“These are not exceptions to impress us, but reminders of what is possible,” he said, adding that the goal is not fame but ensuring every individual has dignity, purpose and a place in society.

At the heart of SAA’s work, he said, are the values of acceptance, understanding and respect, which guide its programmes and long-term vision.

Ngu added that the association will continue investing in staff training to ensure quality, intentional and compassionate intervention, as the number of autism diagnoses continues to rise.

To meet growing demand, SAA is preparing to open a new facility this year, which is in its final stage of completion. The building is expected to expand capacity, reduce waiting lists and improve therapy, education and training services.

However, he revealed that only about 25 per cent of construction costs have been paid to date.

“We appeal to the public, corporate partners and stakeholders to support this effort. This is not just a building — it is an investment in the future of hundreds of children and families,” he said.

On the occasion, Ngu called on Malaysians to move beyond awareness to action.

“Let us build schools that include workplaces that empower and communities that embrace. Humanity is measured not by how we treat the strong, but by how we honour every life. Every life has value, and every child is a hero,” he said.