KUCHING: The Kuching Autistic Association (KAA) successfully raised RM350,000 during its fundraising 2024 Charity Sales and Food Fair held at the Association of Churches Sarawak Hall on Sunday (July 14).
The money raised will be used to fund its annual operational costs of RM1.2 million and other needs.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian who was present at the charity sale, expressed his gratitude to the association and the community for their commitment and contributions during the fundraising event.
“Today, we see KAA, the parents, and everyone coming together to do fundraising. This is the very spirit that we need in our Sarawak nation-building.
“This is because the children who are born autistic, they did not choose to be born autistic, but we can choose to help.
“The Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 highlights inclusivity, so we must make sure that no one is left behind and that is how we build a nation,” he said when met by reporters.
Dr Sim, who is also Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister said it was good to see that the public were giving their support especially to those in need.
“It is not because you feel sorry for them, but because you can do something for them. That is very important.
“I am also very grateful that the parents are bringing their autistic children out as this could foster further understanding and support among the public.
“We don’t want the parents to hide their children. We want them to bring their children into the community so that together, we can share our love for them,” he said.
Dr Sim also encouraged the public to continue to support KAA beyond their annual charity events.
“Support means visiting them not just once a year but regularly, understanding how the association operates and how they help the children.
“These children are growing older, and we need to think about their future after their parents are no longer around. The public, the community, and the association must come together to help them,” he said.
Among those present was Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang and KAA president Dr Catherine Chen.
