By Azian Aziz
GOMBAK, Nov 27 — The move to extend the treatment for Anak Istimewa Selangor (AnIS) special-needs children to specialist hospitals has come as a relief to their parents.
Taman Sri Gombak Community Rehabilitation Organisation (PPDK) volunteer instructor Zainab Abd Karim, 46, said specialist treatment can help such children more properly.
“If we can get specialist help, the treatment of special children with ailments like my five-year-old son who suffers from hydrocephalus and Down syndrome will be better.
“The Iltizam AnIS card makes it easier to seek assistance with only one card, so it is very helpful,” she said.
Single mother Zainun Yusuf, 66, who has a 21-year-old son with autism, said her family’s medical expenses could be reduced if she qualifies to receive assistance from AnIS and the AnIS Card.
“My son and I have been dependent on my late husband’s Social Security Organisation (Socso) pension for the past 22 years.
“I hope to be able to apply for help from AnIS, and obtain the AnIS Card in order to reduce the cost of my son’s treatment and expenses,” said the Kampung Nakhoda Kiri resident.
Retired teacher, Normala Baharom, 58, from Batu Caves, also has a 20-year-old autistic child. She is thankful the state government has not forgotten the plight of special-needs children.
“Special-needs children are also Selangor residents, and I am pleased that the state government has not forgotten them.
“I hope my child, who requires follow-up treatment for external bowel disease and ear problems, alongside other special-needs children will have the opportunity to obtain treatment and help,” she said.
During the tabling of the 2023 Selangor Budget on Friday (November 25), Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari announced that AnIS assistance will be expanded with the offer of additional benefits in the form of medical treatment at specialist hospitals.
He added the AnIS Card will be introduced to make it easier for parents with special-needs children to get access to all forms of assistance in one card.
