KUCHING: A non-governmental organisation on Wednesday expressed hope that the Special Needs Training Centre in Samarahan will be completed soon.
Kuching Association of Talent Development and Welfare of Special Needs (KATSN) adviser Datuk Sim Kiang Chiok said the centre will be a place for special children and adults to retire when their parents can no longer care for them or when there is no guardian to look after them.
“We must trust that our government will continue to support our special children and adults when we are no longer able to do so.
“I also hope that there would be a fixed annual grant to deserving NGOs for them to carry out their invaluable work and an increase in the monthly allowance for our OKU (persons with disabilities) in light of the rising cost of living.
Fatimah (sitting, centre) together with Sim (sitting, right) in a photo with participants of the programme.
“Perhaps the Sarawak government can supplement the existing allowance, ensuring a more comfortable life for these special children and adults and reducing the stress associated with fulfilling their basic needs,” he said after attending the Gifted Art Exhibition by 13 special children and young adults here on Wednesday (Sept 27).
He is grateful to Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Well-being Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah for her continuous support towards the betterment of the special needs community.
On the programme, Sim said it has been expanded to basket making, baking and others.
“The basket making and baking lessons also involve the parents and guardians of these special children.
“Not all special children are inclined towards the arts, so these new programmes are for those who excel in hands-on skills. Parents can also join these programmes to learn new skills that can generate extra income for their special children and families,” he added.
The gifted art exhibition, which began on Sept 22 will end on Oct 1 at Plaza Merdeka.
