KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 — Various programmes and initiatives for children with dyslexia disorders are being planned, especially for rural areas, said Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Among the initiatives lined up are awareness programmes on dyslexia disorders and the identification of early symptoms of dyslexia among children in rural communities.
“Urban communities are aware of this disorder, but not rural communities, and if we do not give them the opportunity, they would not know if their children are living with dyslexia,” she said to the press after launching the 2023 Dyslexia Awareness Month today.
World Dyslexia Awareness Month in October aims to spread awareness of the disorder amongst the community and gain support from governmental agencies or organisations for the well-being of dyslexic children.
Nancy said associations or non-governmental organisations related to dyslexia disorder care are encouraged to share their ideas and plans to spread awareness of the disorder with the ministry.
The ministry will also conduct research with local universities next year to curate a module on the disorder for a clear understanding of dyslexia in Malaysia.
The Social Welfare Department (JKM) recorded that until September this year, 258,445 people were registered under the Learning Disability Category.
Of that number, 20,127 people are registered under the Specific Learning Disability (Specific LD) sub-category, where the main characteristics are dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia.
She advised parents or family members of dyslexic children to meet with consultants at any JKM office in their areas for assistance.
— Bernama
