By Iylia Marsya Iskandar
GOMBAK, 20 April 2020: In light of the ongoing pandemic that is affecting lives worldwide, the annual World Autism Month celebrated this year on 2 April reminds humankind to remain empathetic and inclusive towards persons with autism and other disabilities.
The Chairperson of the National Autism Society of Malaysia, Feilina SY Muhammad Feisol said that there are approximately 8,000 to 9,000 babies born annually with the case of autism nationwide and in this Movement Control Order (MCO) period, autistic people and their families are deeply affected as well.
The Malaysian government, following the urge of the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres that persons with autism in this COVID-19 period should not be deprived of their rights, has allowed them to do outdoor therapy as long as it is not done in groups, and this is also commended by health specialists.
The founder of IIUM Special Parents Support Group and a parent of a 19-year-old son with autism, Dr. Aida Mokhtar said that the flexibility of the Malaysian government for persons with autism is a step in the right direction that shows continuous support despite the pandemic.
Following her experience, she elaborated that parents of special needs children have to undertake several roles during this MCO period that has been going on for over a month. In regards to special needs children, “they have to manage their children’s behaviour, which can involve meltdowns and tantrums, give them activities, coordinate therapies online and making sure their mental health is all right.”
This pose a challenge for children that is non-verbal as parents have to interpret through non-verbal actions. Furthermore, parents also have to do their work, manage the household and attend to other children as well.
Expressing her admiration to all parents with special needs children Dr. Aida said: “My hats off to the special parents in the IIUM group and others in the world. They are special heroes at home during this MCO period.”
She said, “Persons with autism and/or other disabilities ought to be given priority in terms of education, employment, healthcare and support and I hope that the Malaysian government will enhance these areas further.” ***
Source: The Star