Answer for Written Question PT052

QUESTION

Yang Berhormat Awang Lawi bin Haji Lamat

YANG BERHORMAT AWANG LAWI BIN HAJI LAMAT asked the MENTERI KESIHATAN to state the Ministry’s measures to ensure adequate provision, including early detection, intervention and continuous support, in addressing the increase in autism cases in the country.

ANSWER

Yang Berhormat Menteri Kesihatan

A. Staff Training and Competency Enhancement

The Ministry of Health conducts regular and structured training for staff at the Child Development Centre (CDC) to strengthen their competencies in developmental assessment, autism diagnosis and multidisciplinary case management. This training covers the enhancement of clinical skills, the use of standardised assessment tools, as well as the coordination of documentation and reporting to ensure consistent and high-quality services.

In addition, consultant specialists contribute through training sessions and knowledge-sharing with local health officers. Examples of these efforts include lectures for hospital doctors during weekly Continuing Medical Education (CME) sessions, as well as webinars on the early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using M-CHAT. These initiatives further strengthen the capacity of the local workforce to identify and manage autism cases.

The Ministry enhances workforce capacity by sending Allied Health Professionals (AHP), such as psychologists, to attend specialised programmes in early assessment and evidence-based intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder.

B. Expansion of the Workforce and Diagnostic Clinics

The Ministry is increasing the number of health officers and support professionals, including AHP, at the CDC to address the rising number of referrals and reduce the waiting period for assessments. This expansion aims to increase service capacity, ensure that early intervention can commence more promptly and maintain the quality of services.

The Ministry is also increasing the number of sessions and locations for diagnostic clinics to expand access to developmental and autism assessments. This measure helps to reduce waiting lists, expedite the diagnostic process and ensure more comprehensive service coverage throughout the country.

C. Training for Frontline Staff and Screening Tools

Specialised training is provided to frontline staff at Maternal Child Health (MCH) clinics, General Practitioners (GP) and the Emergency Department (ED) to enhance their ability to identify early signs of developmental delay and autism. Emphasis is placed on early screening skills, accurate documentation and clear referral pathways to the CDC.

The Ministry has introduced the use of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) as a standard screening tool at MCH clinics for children aged between 16 and 30 months. Its implementation is accompanied by guidance on interpreting the results and a systematic referral pathway to the CDC, to ensure that children at risk receive further assessment without delay.

D. Public Awareness and Continuous Support

The Ministry is raising public awareness through local radio programmes and social media platforms such as the CDC’s Instagram account, to educate the public about the early signs of autism, the importance of early intervention and channels for obtaining assistance. These initiatives aim to reduce stigma, improve health literacy and encourage parents to seek assessments earlier.

Continuous support is also provided through the Parent Education Programme (PEP) workshops and the Early Development Programme (EDP), which assist children with developmental needs before they begin schooling. The Ministry has also initiated specialised clinics for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and nutrition clinics to support children with communication needs and complex feeding issues.

E. Collaboration with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)

The Ministry is strengthening its collaboration with NGOs such as SMARTER and Autism Without Borders through the organisation of conferences, workshops and joint working groups. This collaboration expands support networks, promotes the sharing of expertise and best practices, and empowers families and professionals in the holistic management of autism.

In conclusion, these measures demonstrate the Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensuring adequate provision, including early detection, intervention and continuous support, in addressing the increase in autism cases in the country. This approach is implemented through nationwide collaboration involving ministries, agencies, communities and individuals, to ensure that children with autism receive the appropriate support.