132 KEMAS Preschools for Autistic Children to Open in January 2027

MELAKA, Sept 27 – A total of 132 Community Development Department (KEMAS) preschools (Tabika) tailored specifically for children with autism will begin operations in January next year.

KEMAS Director-General Datuk Mohd Hanafiah Man announced that the screening process for admission will open next month in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

“God willing, I believe this will benefit at least nearly 2,000 children with autism as the number of applications (from parents) is quite high,” Mohd Hanafiah told reporters on Sunday during the Melaka State KEMAS Community Festival 2026 at the Semabok Dalam Multipurpose Hall, officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

To ensure quality care and adhere to established early childhood special education standards, each class will accommodate a maximum of 10 to 15 children. Each class will be staffed by three teachers, maintaining a strict ratio of one teacher for every five to seven students.

Mohd Hanafiah highlighted that a primary prerequisite for enrollment is that the child must possess a Persons with Disabilities (PwD) card issued by the Social Welfare Department (JKM).

He explained that this requirement aligns KEMAS policy with Ministry of Education standards, ensuring that enrolled special-needs students are eligible to receive applicable government allowances and educational support services.

–NMT