Health Ministry committed to helping people with cerebral palsy, says Khairy

CYBERJAYA: The Health Ministry is committed to helping people with cerebral palsy (CP), says Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.

He said that an example of a challenge faced by children with CP is that they can be misunderstood as being slow or intellectually challenged, when in fact cognitive impairment occurs in only a third of CP cases.

“Without the correct educational path, these children mature into adults that find most programmes catering to physically disabled adults are not suitable for them as they are designed for those who became disabled as adults,” said Khairy.

“I would like to reiterate the commitment of the ministry and we are open for further discussion on various matters related to the care of CP individuals,” he said in his speech on Sunday (Oct 9).

Khairy's speech was read by Medical Development Division Deputy Director (Medical Profession) Dr Hirman Ismail in conjunction with the World Cerebral Palsy Day 2022 organised by Gabungan Anak-Anak Palsi Serebrum (GAPS).

Khairy also said there is a need to streamline the support system and strengthen partnerships with non-governmental organisations (NGO) such as GAPS, to establish central database and registry, improve access to rehabilitation services and other social supports such as career options.

“CP is not a degenerative condition but without effective treatment and therapy, many complications can arise. The emphasis is on effective management that needs to look at the unique needs of cerebral palsy and the customised equipment required,” he said.

Meanwhile more than 500 guests gathered at the GAPS World CP Day celebration, which saw children with CP participating in a fashion show dressed as their favourite characters.

GAPS - which runs a one-stop centre in Tamarind Square Cyberjaya - offers customised educational programmes based on the Cambridge syllabus, after school therapy, electives like arts and crafts, cooking as well as Islamic studies.

Society president and founder Rafidah Rafizah Ahmad said that despite the numbers of people living with this condition, many are not seen due to lack of support.

She said this includes the right equipment, mobility aids, wheelchair and the expenses to raise a child with CP.

“Usually one parent has to leave their jobs to act as caregiver, which leaves many families in the community in the B40 group,” she said.

CP is a neurological condition that affects movement, balance and coordination. Based on statistics, CP occurs one out of every 300 children, and it is the most common lifelong physical disability.