KENINGAU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the State Government will continue to support efforts to strengthen collaborative networks in expanding access to education, early intervention and support services for children with special educational needs.
He said this includes the State Education Department, schools, parents, government agencies, higher learning institutions, the private sector and non-governmental organisations.
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“In fact, this year alone, the State Government has allocated RM173.56 million to the Ministry of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing, as well as the departments and agencies under it, to implement programmes aimed at enhancing the wellbeing and welfare of the people.
“The wellbeing of the people remains a priority, including the welfare of persons with disabilities, orphans, senior citizens, single mothers and the poor and underprivileged.
“To this end, various programmes are being implemented this year through the Ministry of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing,” he said at the opening of The Neurohope Programme 2026 at the SK Bingkor Hall, here, Saturday. His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Ceasar Mandela Malakun.
According to the Chief Minister, among the programmes provided are welfare assistance schemes covering persons with disabilities, senior citizens, children, single mothers, the Orphans Assistance Scheme, the Food Assistance Programme for the Poor and Underprivileged, as well as the expansion of the Sabah Autism Centre (Paus).
“At present, the Kota Kinabalu Paus has been established in Sembulan and is operating well, providing services for children with autism in Kota Kinabalu. It is therefore my hope that the people will take full advantage of all the programmes provided by the Government.
“Paus will offer quality and affordable early education for children with autism aged between three and seven years.
“Such centres will be established in Tawau, Sandakan, Kudat and Beaufort in phases beginning this year,” he said.
Hajiji said The Neurohope Programme is a community-driven initiative that brings together the education, healthcare and government sectors, community organisations, parents and the wider community with a shared goal of building a society that better understands and supports the development of every child.
“Through today’s programme, I urge parents, teachers, community leaders and the public to seize the opportunity to deepen their knowledge, share experiences and work together in building a holistic support ecosystem.
“We recognise that support must come not only from immediate family members, but also through strong commitment from the community, healthcare professionals and nongovernmental organisations,” he said.
He expressed appreciation and commended the entire SK Bingkor community for demonstrating that schools can serve as centres for community development.
“I would also like to congratulate Dr Velerie Primus for his dedication in championing inclusive education, which has earned him international recognition.
“He has brought pride to Malaysia and Sabah by being named the Cambridge Dedicated Teacher Awards 2026 winner for the Southeast Asia and Pacific region, being listed among the Top 50 Finalists for the Global Teacher Prize and receiving the Special Award from the Malaysian Minister of Education,” he said.
The Chief Minister expressed hope that The Neurohope Programme would be expanded into a movement capable of benefiting and inspiring more schools, communities and districts throughout Sabah.
“May this programme mark the beginning of a much larger movement to strengthen inclusive education, empower families and build a more caring society for a brighter future for Sabah,” he said.
