(Borneo) Kuching opens "first autism-friendly playground" for "increasing number of autistic children"

June 5, 2025,  Borneo Post: Sarawak’s first autism-friendly playground opens in Kuching

https://www.theborneopost.com/2025/06/05/sarawaks-first-autism-friendly-playground-opens-in-kuching/

KUCHING (June 5): The state’s first autism-friendly outdoor playground, Ausome Park, located at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Plamarium Park here, was officially launched today.

Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who officiated the launch, said the first of its kind facility is not just for children with autism but also serves as a form of therapy for the entire community.

“We are here to make a difference for those who did not choose to be born autistic. Projects like this are not just for children but also aim to enable the community to learn more about autism,” he said.

Dr Sim, who is also Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, congratulated MBKS and the Kuching Autistic Association (KAA) for this noble collaboration.

He hoped that similar projects would be expanded to other parts of Sarawak, including Sibu and Miri. . . .

Meanwhile, Kuching South Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the Ausome Park was built in collaboration with the KAA, and is operated by the newly-established MBKS Children’s Council.

He emphasised that the park is more than just a playground, stating: “It is our community’s commitment to ensure that every child, regardless of ability, has the space to grow and have fun.”

Ausome Park is thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of children with autism, including building self-confidence, providing sensory stimulation activities, improving gross motor skills such as climbing and balancing, playing and socialising at their own pace, and feeling accepted and valued.

Apart from providing space for children, the park is also a place for parents and siblings to spend quality time together, making it a space for rehabilitation and family bonding.

Meanwhile, KAA president Dr Catherine Chen said the park is essential for autistic children to learn to socialise in a more controlled environment.

She noted that in Kuching alone, at least 1,260 children live with autism.

Given this, Dr Chen said the Ausome Park is a very timely initiative, considering the increasing number of autistic children not only in Kuching but also throughout the state of Sarawak.