AS a mother of an autistic child, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has a fear: who will take care of her child after she is no longer around.
Her sentiments were shared in a post on her Facebook page on April 3, in conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day.
“It’s not that I didn’t see the signs, but I delayed accepting them. My hope was that he would improve and be as remarkable as his sisters – just a matter of time,” she wrote.
She realised her mistake after meeting the Education Ministry’s special education team, who conducted a screening confirming her child is autistic.
Stressing the importance of early screening, she said her son has made marked improvements since.
“My child is much better today than he was when I was in denial. The support of teachers has been especially amazing,” she added.
In the post, Fadhlina outlined key lessons for parents, emphasising acceptance and timely intervention.
“All parents of autistic children go through the same phase. What’s important is to identify signs and seek help immediately.
“Secondly, accept with calmness. Then, organise schedules to support your children.
“Thirdly, screening is important. Get it done by a professional team. Early detection is better. The Education Ministry and the Health Ministry are working together on this,” she said.
She acknowledged capacity challenges in special education classes, noting that the Education Ministry is addressing 71 special education integration programme (MPBK) classes that are currently exceeding capacity.
“There should also be more awareness programmes, and we as parents should continue speaking up about autism.
“Seek advice from the PERMATA or MPBK Divisions at the Education Ministry or from private autism centres,” she said.
