KUCHING: The construction of a new Special Needs Community Centre (SSNC) is set to begin this year, providing a one-stop service hub for individuals with disabilities in Sarawak, says Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
The state Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Minister said the RM55mil centre will be built at the Samarahan Rehabilitation Centre site in Kota Samarahan.
"The design is complete, and we will proceed with calling for tenders next," she told reporters after launching the Kuching Autistic Association's (KAA) autism art exhibition here on Thursday (Feb 20).
Fatimah said SSNC would be the first centre in Sarawak to provide lifelong services for the special needs community, all the way from early diagnosis, intervention and rehabilitation.
The centre will also feature a sheltered workshop offering vocational training, talent development, and job matching.
"We want to equip individuals with special needs to be independent and to be able to earn a living," she said.
The centre will also include sports facilities and a residential home for elderly individuals with special needs who have no family to care for them.
She also said that art serves as a therapeutic tool for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with autism.
"For individuals with autism, who may struggle with verbal communication, art offers a way to express their thoughts, emotions, and perspectives. Each artwork displayed here is a testament to their creativity and resilience," she said.
Meanwhile, KAA president Dr Catherine Chen said the exhibition serves as a fundraising initiative to support and expand educational programmes for individuals with autism.
She said proceeds from the event would help cover operational costs, develop specialised educational programmes, and acquire essential resources and materials.
The exhibition, which runs until Sunday (Feb 23) at The Spring Mall, features 100 artworks by KAA artists, alongside paintings donated by eight local artists.
