A MORE targeted approach has been adopted in determining where new PERMATA Kurnia Centres (PPKs) are most needed.
This, says Education Ministry PPK director Dr Zuraidah Ismail, is to address long-standing gaps in early autism intervention.
She said expansion plans are guided by multiple data points, including OKU registration trends and demographic projections.
“The Education Ministry’s PERMATA Division also analyses birth rate data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia to forecast future demand,” she explained, adding that each centre will take in a maximum of 300 children with autism annually.
Currently, there are two PPKs, located in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya, with 11 new centres set to open nationwide by 2030 (see infographic).
Zuraidah said the strategy aims to ensure that infrastructure keeps pace not just with current needs, but also with the expected rise in the number of young children under seven requiring early screening and intervention.
She added that the centres have been designed as community training hubs – a model aimed at multiplying their impact beyond enrolled children.
“Its significance extends far beyond intervention.
“This approach creates a multiplier effect, forging localised support networks and equipping communities with the tools to champion early diagnosis and intervention,” she said.
Beyond increasing capacity, Zuraidah added, a central goal of the expansion is to make services more accessible to families in rural and underserved areas.
“The strategic placement of these centres is intended to reduce travel time and bring services closer to families.
“We are also working with local NGOs, schools and community groups to ensure programmes are culturally relevant and accessible,” she said, adding that by continuously integrating community feedback, the PERMATA Division ensures that these centres remain dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of the families they serve.
“The ministry is building a future where every autistic child is celebrated, supported and given the foundation they need for a life of independence and achievement,” she concluded.
