SIBU: Minister for Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, urged the parents of an underage boy who went viral for driving alone to seek counselling through autistic associations and parents support groups.
She said autistic children often lack awareness of situations or actions that can be dangerous.
“My experience with my autistic grandchild is that he is not aware of situations or actions that can be dangerous to him,” she said when contacted today.
She was asked by New Sarawak Tribune on an 11-year-old boy who went viral for driving his father’s car alone and saying, “There are no police here, I just want to drive” when confronted.
The Dalat assemblywoman said parents need to acquire special skills to educate their children about recognising and avoiding dangerous situations or actions, adding it can be done by actively participating in classes organised by autistic associations.
“Sibu and Kuching have autistic associations and parents support groups. Join these groups to gain skills and strength through their support. You do not have to face this alone,” she said.
As for the boy, Fatimah adviced his parents to refer his case to the General Hospital Psychiatric for further advice or treatment.
Yesterday (June 6), Sibu police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili reported that the boy and his parents were tracked down for investigation and further action.
Investigations revealed that the boy has autism and medical records at the Psychiatry Specialist Clinic, Sibu Hospital.
Zulkipli also said that the police issued a summons under Section 26(1)B of the Road Transport Act 1987 to the boy’s father for allowing his son to drive without a licence.
