KUCHING: The prevalence of children with special needs in Malaysia is on the rise, according to recent statistics. Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri highlighted a significant increase in the number of such children.
As per the Ministry of Education (MOE) data, there were 93,951 registered children in 2020, a figure that climbed to 107,020 by January 31, 2023.
However, Nancy noted a discrepancy in registration, pointing out that the Social Welfare Department (JKM) only recorded 7,582 children, raising concerns about underreporting.
“This is very concerning, if these children are not provided or given early intervention, they will face various difficulties when they step into school later,” she said after attending the opening ceremony of the National Special Education Seminar by NAECCEM of Early Childhood and Education Malaysia at Damai Lagoon Resort on Saturday (Nov 18).
Emphasising the critical importance of early childhood, Nancy added, “The first five years of a child’s life is a very critical time to inculcate good values, knowledge and basic skills.”
“I wish to see more special needs schools expand throughout the country where it is accessible for all special needs children,” she said.
Further, she said that with collaborative efforts, it is possible to eliminate the stigma associated with special needs children. Also present were president of National Association of Early Childhood Care and Education of Malaysia (NAECCEM), Shamsinah Che Shariff and Social Welfare Department (JKM) director, Adana Jed.
