25-07-2025
Sibu association seeks funds for centre to train youths with autism
Construction work on SAA's new building in progress.
Sibu Autistic Association (SAA) is appealing to the public for funds for the construction of its new building costing RM6.5mil.
To date, the SAA has only managed to raise RM700,000, including a single largest donation of RM200,000 from the Lee Foundation States of Malaya.
'The funds we currently have are far from sufficient. But I will not give up,' said SAA chairman David Ngu.
He said the three-storey building on Jalan Alan would focus on autistic youth who could not be accommodated at existing premises, which is limited to children under 12 years old.
The new facility will provide vocational training in areas such as agriculture and food preparation, with the aim of preparing these youths for independent living in the future.
The construction works are currently ahead of schedule, he said.
Ngu said if they could keep that pace, the building could be completed before the end of the year, instead of the estimated period of May 2026.
Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister and Pelawan assemblyman Datuk Michael Tiang has pledged to allocate RM500,000 under the Rural Transformation Project fund for basic infrastructure works such as access roads and drainage.
'These children with autism are now young adults and require a dedicated space where they can learn to become independent.
'This building is crucial for their future,' he said.
A roof-topping ceremony for the building is scheduled to take place on Aug 18, to be launched by Sarawak Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
Those who wish to contribute may contact the association for more details. — By ANDY CHUA
