The first Adventist Autism Advocacy initiative, titled “Building Care,” was launched on July 20, 2024, at the Ming Garden Hotel in Kota Kinabalu. This groundbreaking event marked a significant milestone for the Adventist community in Sabah as it sought to raise awareness and provide support for individuals with autism and their families.
The initiative was organized by the Sabah Mission Adventist Advocacy of the Adventist Possibilities Ministries, a newly formed program, dedicated to addressing the needs of the autism community. The event attracted over 200 participants, including parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, and church members, all united by a common goal: to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by autism.
During the launching of the advocacy, government officials were present including, Chief Assistant Senior Director of Special Education for the Sabah State Education Department, Puan Piluh Mathilda Osong, who delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and the role of educating communities in providing holistic care. Her speech resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom were moved by her call to action to build a caring community where every child, regardless of their abilities, is valued and supported.
Meanwhile, in his officiating speech, MAUM president, Pr. Abel Bana shared the importance of creating awareness as a collective responsibility to ensure that every child, regardless of their neurological differences, receives the understanding, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that changes the way a child interacts and communicates. According to the Malaysian Health Ministries, Malaysia lacks experts in this field which has resulted in a long wait for accurate diagnosis of children.
The launching of Building CARE aimed at educating attendees about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and promoting practical strategies for supporting individuals with autism. Further, Building CARE (Children, Autism, Resilience, and Empowered) aims to create awareness through educating oneself and others while providing emotional and educational support to families with children on the spectrum.
The highlight of the launching was the announcement from the organizers on the plans for future initiatives, including regular support group meetings, educational programs, and collaborations with local healthcare providers to enhance services for those with autism. The Adventist church leaders offered a dedicatory prayer to the 2024-2025 Building Care team headed by the President, Mrs. Susana Johnny, and advisors, Dr. Jane Yap, MAUM Director of Health and Adventist Possibility Ministries, Madam Rozelene Gulon, Sabah Mission Director of Children, Music and Adventist Possibility Ministries and Madam Doreen Lim, Sabah Mission Director of Health and Adventist Community Services.
Overall, the launching of the Building Care initiative was a resounding success, laying a strong foundation for ongoing advocacy and support for the autism community within the Adventist Church in Sabah and in Malaysia. The event not only provided valuable information and resources but also fostered a sense of hope and solidarity among participants.
Reported by Hazel Wanda Ginajil-Gara, MAUM Communication Department
7, August 2024, Wednesday.