Kuching has launched its first park for autistic children, named Ausome Park. The park is also said to be the first of its kind in Malaysia.
The park is located at Palmarium Park, just beside the Kuching South City Council (MBKS) headquarters.
Sarawak Tribune reports that the park aims to provide a safe and engaging environment for autistic children, while also promoting awareness and community inclusion for neurodiversity.
During the launch, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian highlighted the need for inclusivity, noting over 1,000 autistic children in Kuching.
He also encouraged the public to view the park as a space for connection and understanding, noting that the park is in line with Satawak’s Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Ausome Park in Kuching was initiated last year, received over RM430,000 in contributions, with an additional RM50,000 approved by Dr. Sim for completion.
The park is part of a broader campaign to integrate autistic children into society, with future expansion plans.
Aside from that, the initiative also showcases the talents of autistic children through their artwork and products to raise funds and advocate for their inclusion.
News source: Sarawak Tribune. Photo source: UKAS
What is autism
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting how individuals perceive and interact with the world. It encompasses a wide range of characteristics, primarily impacting social communication and interaction, and often involving repetitive behaviors or restricted interests.
While there’s no single cause, a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role. Autism presents uniquely in each person; some may thrive with extensive support, while others live independently. Early diagnosis and intervention, including therapies like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and speech therapy, can significantly improve outcomes. Increasing awareness and fostering inclusive environments are crucial for supporting autistic individuals to reach their full potential and be valued members of society.
Source: psychiatry.org, Mayo Clinic
