IT was a meaningful Saturday morning at SMK Westlands as leaders, experts, and parents, from afar and near, gathered to discuss the importance of seeing autistic individuals as no different, but connected in the community.
Different and not less is a strong message in today’s fast-evolving world, especially when individuals who carry autistic traits are concerned.
Courtesy of a forum jointly organised by the Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara (PWM) and the Penang Advocates for All Abilities (PAAA), hundreds of participants thronged the school’s hall this morning to get insights and deepen their knowledge about autism.
One of the speakers, a consultant paediatrician and founder and chief executive officer of Space A Care Centre, has called for a change in perception among the people, while urging for greater support toward autistic individuals.
“We must change the way we view and support individuals on the autism spectrum.
“Too often, their struggles with mental health are overlooked, even though the statistics show how vulnerable they truly are.
“Behind every number is a person, someone’s child, sibling, or friend, who deserves to be heard, understood, and empowered to live a full and meaningful life.
Change begins when we start listening with empathy and responding with care,” Dr Zahilah Filzah said in her speech earlier.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the forum, called it a timely initiative to strengthen the understanding and evolution of this condition in today’s fast-paced world.
The theme of the forum was ‘What is New in Autism’.
“This is a timely and meaningful effort because what we know about autism continues to evolve and what we understood a decade ago is no longer enough today.
“We are now learning more about communication with nonspeaking autistics, about creating environments that support rather than isolate, and through sessions like “Heal the Healer”, how to remind caregivers and professionals that caring for themselves is also an act of service,” Chow said in his speech.
Relatively, he also thanked the Federal Government for spearheading efforts in the area of autism, particularly mentioning the new PERMATA centres, special-needs schools, Autism Service Centres, and even increased tax relief for families, under the National 2026 Budget.
He also emphasised the state government’s commitment to ensuring vulnerable and less fortunate groups will continue to be taken care of, especially through various initiatives undertaken in the past, such as the i-Sejahtera programme.
Separately, Chow dropped a huge hint that the public can expect some big news concerning inclusivity and social well-being in the upcoming State Legislative Assembly Sitting later this month.
In a related development, Chow, who is also Padang Kota assemblyman, reflected on his early encounters with the autism community, recalling the days when his wife, Tan Lean Kee, was actively advocating for support and inclusion for autistic individuals.
“The Lions Club once sponsored an autism centre in Bukit Gelugor, back when my wife Tan Lean Kee was deeply involved in advocating for autistic individuals,” he shared.
Chow recounted how his wife’s passion led him to visit the centre as well.
“Occasionally, I would follow her to the centre. That was where I first came to understand the world of autistic children,” he said.
He expressed hope that the day’s forum would continue to raise awareness and share valuable insights.
“I am sure today’s forum will provide the latest knowledge and information on autism to parents and caregivers.
“Through sessions like this, we can help caregivers be reminded, guided, and better equipped to provide the right support,” he added.
Also present earlier was the forum’s advisor, Dr Sim Joo Seng.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Law Suun Ting