KUALA LUMPUR: The Pengaman-Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) Autism Centre has significantly grown since its inception on Aug 3, 2020, according to Tan Sri Hussin Ismail (pic).
The deputy chairman of Yayasan Pengaman Malaysia highlighted that the centre initially started with three classrooms and 25 children.
"By December 2024, we expanded to six classrooms and introduced a dedicated Occupational Therapy room.
"The centre now serves 50 children, offering a structured early intervention programme with both morning and afternoon sessions, as well as full-day classes and intensive school-preparation modules.
"The centre employs 18 personnel, including a manager, programme head, officers, and intervention staff," he said during the centre's Autism Day celebration at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) on Saturday (June 14).
Hussin emphasized that Autism Day is not merely ceremonial but reflects deeper social responsibility.
"Autistic children are a gift — each with their unique light. With love, guidance, and support, we can nurture their potential.
"The goal is to build an inclusive society where no one is sidelined," he stated.
He called on parents, educators, caregivers, and the public to better understand and support children with autism.
"Let us shape a future where children on the spectrum are celebrated with pride," he added, expressing gratitude for the support from the police force, partner agencies, and the community.
Hussin thanked entities like the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) and Lembaga Zakat Selangor for their financial aid, which has eased the burden on families and ensured access to essential services.
He also acknowledged corporate partners such as Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) for their contributions to the centre’s growth.
Meanwhile, Azura Izham, the centre's head, explained that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects social interaction, communication, and behaviour, with a broad spectrum of presentations.
"Awareness is growing, but challenges like limited access to early diagnosis and inclusive education persist," she noted.
Azura emphasized the centre's role in creating an environment free of stigma and discrimination, focusing on guiding children to realize their potential.
"We must not try to change them. Instead, let us help them become the best version of themselves," she said.
The event, officiated by Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, included activities such as a kidnapping rescue demonstration by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), horseback riding, and a safety demonstration by the Fire and Rescue Department.
