(Borneo) Early support for autistic kids "crucial"; "Autistic children are increasingly common in today’s society"

Jan 14, 2026, Borneo Post: Early support crucial for children with autism, says Sibu MP

https://www.theborneopost.com/2026/01/14/early-support-crucial-for-children-with-autism-says-sibu-mp/  

SIBU (Jan 14): Children with autism need to be placed in appropriate institutions at an early age to receive proper guidance and education that can support their learning and shape their future.

In stating this, Sibu MP Oscar Ling stressed that schools, society and the public must also adopt a more understanding and empathetic approach in supporting autistic children in both their education and daily lives.

Autistic children are increasingly common in today’s society, Ling noted, with some teachers estimating that there may be at least one autistic child in every classroom.

“Hopefully, society will not view autistic children with prejudice, but instead embrace them with a more inclusive attitude, allowing them to integrate more easily with their peers and the wider community,” he said.

Ling was speaking at the DASH for HOPE Charity Run appreciation dinner held here recently.

The charity run was organised to raise funds for the construction of a new education building for the Sibu Autism Association (SAA).

The event, which was successfully held on Dec 27 last year, attracted about 400 participants.

Ling noted that with the right education and guidance, some autistic children are able to demonstrate exceptional intelligence and learning abilities, achieving outstanding academic results.

“Children with special talents can have their potential discovered through proper training, whether in academic subjects or specialised skills, enabling them to fully develop their abilities,” he said.

He expressed hope that the DASH for HOPE Charity Run would encourage greater public attention to the needs of autistic children, while also raising awareness of autism and fostering stronger community support.

“When teachers and parents work together to guide and educate them, these children can be integrated into society, develop their strengths and build a bright and meaningful future of their own—an outcome that society as a whole hopes to see,” he added.