KUCHING: The Kuching Autistic Association (KAA) is set to organise an Autism Art Exhibition, showcasing more than 60 artworks by special needs children from Feb 19 to 23.
The exhibition, which will be held at The Spring shopping mall, will also feature art contributions from eight renowned local artists, including Melton Kais, Ng Paik San, Nia Latif, Sheila Kho, Angelina Bong, Kho Ah Thong, Yvone Yeo and Alister Sim.
According to organising chairperson Connie Yeo Chia Lin, the initiative aims to provide an opportunity for the local community to purchase and appreciate the extraordinary talents of artists on the autism spectrum.
“Around 60 artworks by KAA students will be displayed and sold to the public to raise funds in support of therapy and educational programs for children and adults living with autism, while also raising public awareness on the issue.
“At the same time, this initiative seeks to generate additional financial resources needed for KAA’s operations,” she said during the press conference for the event here on Wednesday (Jan 22).
She added that the initiative is also intended to enhance public awareness of autism.
“We hope this exhibition will open the public’s eyes to the importance of early diagnosis, access to more effective interventions, and support that helps individuals on the autism spectrum reach their full potential.
“Therefore, we also call for participation from the corporate sector and the public to support this noble cause. With their support, KAA can continue providing the education, training, and therapy that the autistic community in Sarawak greatly needs,” she said.
Further elaborating, Yeo stated that such efforts are crucial to ensure KAA provides the best services to individuals with special needs, as the association currently caters to around 170 students aged between three and 44 years old.
“KAA also employs over 30 trained teachers, four administrative staff, and a caretaker, with an estimated annual operating cost of RM1.3 million.
“More than 70 per cent of our funding comes from donations and fundraising efforts,” she added.
Meanwhile, Yeo revealed that KAA is currently constructing a new building equipped with various facilities, including expanded vocational training and job opportunities for autistic adults.
For more information, the public can contact KAA at 082-686363 or reach out to Kimberly (010-2686363), Odilia (010-2636300), or Leonitta (011-16336863). Enquiries can also be sent via email to kaakch@gmail.com.
