MIRI: The Ministry of Women, Childhood, and Community Development is set to establish a One-Stop Early Intervention Centre for children with autism here by February next year.
The location for the centre has already been identified, according to Datuk Rosey Yunus, Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Development I (Women and Childhood Development).
In a recent working visit to Miri Hospital’s nursery (TASKA), Rosey emphasised the need to address the rising statistics of autism.
“We are looking into ways to reduce the incidence of autism in children by focusing on the health of pregnant mothers.
This will involve extensive research to understand the factors contributing to autism, with the aim of reducing these statistics,” she said.
Rosey was accompanied by a delegation from the Selangor State Executive Council, led by Taman Templer assemblywoman Anfaal Saari, who oversees the portfolios of women and family empowerment, social welfare, and the care economy.
Commending the collaboration between Miri Hospital and her ministry, Rosey mentioned that efforts are underway to expand the existing facilities.
Miri Hospital director Dr Jack Wong revealed plans to bring in an additional 1,700 staff to support the hospital’s nursery, which will help alleviate the burden on hospital staff who often struggle to find reliable childcare.
“The expansion of the nursery will provide a better support system for our community, especially for hospital staff who work long hours. With sufficient staff at the nursery, they won’t have to worry about finding a babysitter or daycare for their children while they work,” she said.
Rosey also expressed her gratitude to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg for incorporating the management of nurseries under the state’s jurisdiction.
She highlighted the success of nurseries in Penan villages in Ulu Baram, where programmes are in place to encourage parents to send their children to school.
“Workplace nurseries are becoming increasingly popular as they help to ease the burden on working parents,” Rosey added.
The ministry’s initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving the welfare of women, children, and families in the region, with a particular focus on early childhood development and support for working parents.
