RM350 monthly subsidy for autism
Published on: Fri, Aug 15, 2025
By: Sisca Humphrey, Samantha Sulit Text Size: James (second left) visiting the Paus facility. Kota Kinabalu: Children enrolled at the Sabah Autism Centre (Paus) will now pay only RM300 a month instead of RM650, following a RM350 monthly subsidy from the State Social Welfare Services Department (JPKA). State Community Development and People's Wellbeing Minister Datuk James Ratib said the subsidy is to ease families' financial burden while ensuring access to quality autism intervention. 'This RM350 subsidy will go directly towards reducing the monthly fee paid by parents,' he said when officiating the Paus, here, Thursday. James said the Government is committed to supporting early intervention, recognising its importance for children's long-term development. Currently, the Kota Kinabalu centre has 92 children in structured programmes tailored to individual needs. Another autism centre operates in Sandakan to meet east coast demand. 'The State is aware autism services must expand in line with rising diagnoses and we will continue to explore ways to strengthen facilities and manpower,' he said. He welcomed Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support from government-linked companies (GLCs), particularly Sabah Maju Jaya Energy (SMJE), to help develop and equip the centres. 'I hope more GLCs and private companies will emulate this effort and work with the Government to enhance facilities and resources,' he said. During the event, James observed therapy sessions and interacted with children, parents and therapists. He said the Government will continue to review the centre's needs to ensure adequate equipment, trained staff and learning materials. 'This is part of our responsibility to ensure every child, regardless of abilities, has the opportunity to reach their full potential,' he said, adding that early intervention is critical for better outcomes. James reaffirmed that his Ministry will work closely with agencies and partners to strengthen autism services across the State. 'This is a collective effort and together we can ensure our children receive the support, understanding and opportunities they deserve,' he said. Also present were James' Assistant Minister Datuk Flovia Ng, Permanent Secretary Datuk Maria Chong, Universiti Malaysia Sabah Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Kasim Mansor, JPKA Director Jais Asri, parents and guests. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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