As a tertiary care hospital in Malaysia, Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre (BTMC) is committed to delivering high-quality health services to the community. BTMC has been making a significant difference through its commitment to educating the public and raising awareness on health matters including autism. To further support the awareness of autism, BTMC launched the “Art of Giving” initiative and established an art gallery to showcase the unique talents of children with autism while raising funds for The National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM).
Julian Wong, Chairman of NASOM, Siti Mariyam, General Manager of NASOM,
and Peter Hong, Group CEO, Ramsay Sime Darby Health Care
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Over the past decade, the number of diagnoses of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Malaysia has steadily increased. In the year 2021 alone, a total of 589 children aged 18 and below were diagnosed with ASD, which is a five per cent increase from the 562 children diagnosed in 2020[1].
“We are constantly looking towards expanding into a holistic children’s development centre that can offer various health needs including children with autism. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive approach to healthcare, ensuring that children have access to the best possible care. For us, ‘people caring for people’ is not just a philosophy but a way of life. Each stride we take is dedicated to creating a remarkable impact on the world, one that resonates with the community for generations to come,” said Dr Priscila Rajah, Director of Medical Services, BTMC.
The art gallery at BTMC is a unique initiative to support NASOM, featuring 42 pieces of art created by autistic individuals aged 17 to 29 years old. To date, 10 paintings have been sold, with a total collection of RM5,990. The public can purchase these paintings at the gallery, and the funds raised will be channelled towards the studies and development of autistic children under NASOM’s care.
Mr Julian Wong, Chairman of NASOM said, “The partnership between Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre and NASOM is a remarkable example of how two organisations can collaborate towards a common goal of providing unparalleled care and support for individuals with autism. We stand as a ray of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for every affected family. Let us champion and celebrate the exceptional talents of these individuals, as we empower and uplift them with unwavering commitment.”
BTMC, a multidisciplinary tertiary hospital provides a wide range of medical services and treatments to cater to the needs of patients with diverse health conditions, including autism. BTMC’s team of consultant paediatricians, clinical psychologists and Allied health professionals including a speech therapist, and dietitian is committed to providing early screening of autism for young children, recognising the potential for early detection and intervention to improve long-term outcomes.
“The unwavering dedication to building a better tomorrow is rooted in the Ramsay Sime Darby (RSD) Cares philosophy, with an emphasis on caring for our people, the diverse communities we serve, and the health of our planet. It is crucial to increase public awareness and understanding of autism to combat misconceptions and discrimination towards autistic children. By creating a more inclusive society that celebrates neurodiversity, we can empower and support autistic children to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. It is essential that we work towards creating a world where all children, including those with autism, are embraced and given the opportunities they deserve,” concluded Ms Jasmine Lau, BTMC’s Chief Executive Officer.
At the launch ceremony, three top artists were presented with a mock cheque in recognition of their talent and dedication towards art, namely Husna Qisdeena binti Mohd Hatta (18 years old), Amira Daniea binti Saiful Amri (17 years old) and Pua Zhe Xuan (29 years old). Additionally, Husna Qisdeena hosted a portrait sketching session for guests and media in attendance.
The art pieces created by talented autistic individuals will be available for purchase at BTMC, ranging from RM100 – RM1500.
[1] https://codeblue.galencentre.org/2022/04/06/malaysias-autism-rate-steadily-rising-since-2010/
Source: BTMC
