THE number of individuals registered with autism under Malaysia’s Social Welfare Department (JKM) has increased eightfold over the past decade, reflecting what authorities describe as growing public awareness and stronger support systems for children with autism spectrum disorder.
Social Welfare Department director-general Datuk Che Murad Sayang Ramjan said registrations involving persons with disabilities (OKU) categorised under autism had reached 90,459 as of April 30 this year, compared with significantly lower figures recorded in 2015.
He said the increase was largely driven by aggressive awareness campaigns and educational programmes carried out by the government in collaboration with state administrations and autism advocacy groups, including the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM).
“Possibly in 2015, many children already had autism, but many people still did not fully understand or realise what autism was until awareness increased through the many programmes implemented,” he told reporters.
Che Murad said the government was also expanding specialised support services through the establishment of the Autism Service Centre (PPA) in Bangi, Selangor, which serves as a pilot project under JKM.
The centre began accepting registrations in April and is expected to commence operations in June.
He said the facility was designed to ease the burden on parents seeking appropriate treatment, intervention and therapy services for their children.
The PPA Bangi initiative is being managed by JKM in collaboration with NASOM and the Damansara Damai Community Rehabilitation Centre.
According to Che Murad, the centre will offer structured early intervention programmes and multidisciplinary therapy services for autistic children aged between two and 18 years old.
He was speaking after officiating the Southern Zone Basic Care Seminar for Senior Citizens and Persons with Disabilities, held in conjunction with the Rhythm of Harmonious Life Programme in Melaka.
The event was also attended by Melaka state executive councillor for women, family and community development Datuk Kalsom Nordin.
Meanwhile, Che Murad revealed that a total of 839,535 persons with disabilities were registered under JKM as of April 30.
Of that number, 339,097 individuals — equivalent to 40.39 per cent — were classified under learning disabilities, making it the largest disability category recorded nationwide.
He said the government remained committed to strengthening care systems and support mechanisms for persons with disabilities to ensure they are able to lead more independent, inclusive and higher-quality lives.
“Therefore, the government will continue empowering care and support for persons with disabilities to ensure they can live more quality, independent and inclusive lives in line with the nation’s aspiration of building a caring and disability-friendly society,” he said. - May 24, 2026
