IN light of a recent claim made by a PAS MP, Dr Halimah Ali, in which she had linked poor nutrition to autism, we call for a more responsible governance of speeches and remarks made by MPs, especially one who is medically trained.
Dr Halimah’s statement is irresponsible and is not based on facts or scientific data.
As it is, the autistic community and their caregivers face many challenges in their life experience.
Her statement could paint the wrong impression to the public, which furthers the immense stigma and belief that autism is caused by poor care and that it is determined by level of income.
As advised by Dr Syazana Ali, a primary health care doctor: “When it comes to autism, or any neurodiverse personality; it is always best to quote publications (and) journals as doctors.”
“We have our clinical practice guidelines that are based on vast data and research. It is not fair to blame day-to-day food that we consume knowing that the whole population consumes similar sources without any evidence of developing diverse cognitive and behavioural differences,” she added.
Autistic peer support group, Autism Initiatives Malaysia-High (AIM High) also notes that “having an MP who is a trained medical doctor stating that ‘low-quality’ food could cause autism is appalling, as there is no science behind it”.
“It is irresponsible and invalidating for the autistic community, as we are born this way, and it is not due to our food consumption,” AIM High stressed.
We, at the Autism Inclusiveness Direct Action Group, strongly believe that words and language are powerful tools that shape our thoughts and attitudes, and its impact in influencing and developing society’s mindset should not be underestimated.
Language and terms used to describe autism have to be handled with deep consideration with regard to the context of their usage, especially in dealing with a marginalised community. Autism is complex, nuanced, and largely an interpretative condition.
We strongly urge policymakers, and those in authority of medical care and its allied practitioners, to be mindful and responsible with how they speak of autism.
The self-advocating autistic community in Malaysia is ever ready to participate in meaningful dialogues to alleviate the stigma against us. – The Vibes, February 20, 2023
Autism Inclusiveness Direct Action Group is an autistic-led self-advocacy group championing the rights of autistic representations across society, policy sphere, and media equity.
Autism Initiatives Malaysia-High peer support group is a volunteer support group for autistic adults (level 1 support) in Malaysia. The goal for this group is to facilitate sharing and conversation between members as well as allow folk to network
