KUCHING – The Kuching Autistic Association (KAA) is aiming to secure over RM300,000 through its annual Autism Fundraising Food Fair, a critical event designed to sustain the organisation’s daily operations.
The one-day programme, held at the Association of Churches on Sunday, continues to serve as a primary financial lifeline for the non-profit entity.
Charles Siaw, the president of KAA, revealed that the association faces a substantial annual deficit of approximately RM900,000.
This shortfall arises because the fees charged to students are kept significantly below the actual cost of delivering specialised services.
Consequently, external fundraising efforts are essential to bridge the gap and ensure the centre remains operational.
A major portion of the association’s expenditure is allocated to personnel costs. Siaw explained that around 80 per cent of their budget is dedicated to staff salaries.
This high proportion is due to the nature of their educational approach, which relies heavily on one-to-one teaching methods to provide personalised care and attention to each student.
The recent event featured 94 stalls offering a variety of food and merchandise, drawing significant support from the local community.
Siaw expressed deep appreciation to the public and the participating vendors for their generosity. He noted that such community backing is vital for the association’s survival and growth.
Beyond the food fair, KAA organises other initiatives to generate funds. These include the biennial Meow Autism Run and art exhibitions showcasing works created by the students.
These events not only raise money but also help to increase public awareness and understanding of autism spectrum disorders.
Currently, the association supports approximately 180 students with the assistance of more than 30 teachers.
The membership base consists of over 100 individuals, primarily parents and volunteers who have been instrumental in providing services to the autism community.
The organisation offers tailored programmes divided into three categories to address the diverse needs of different age groups.
These programmes include an Early Intervention Programme for younger children, a secondary intervention track for students aged between 12 and 18, and vocational training along with adult care services for older individuals.
This structured approach ensures that support is available throughout various stages of life, adapting to the changing requirements of those on the spectrum.
Dr Sim Kui Hian, the Sarawak Deputy Premier, attended the event and highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and intervention. He noted that while no one chooses to be born with autism, society can choose to offer support.
He praised the spirit of solidarity displayed by the young volunteers and the broader community, aligning the event with the Sarawak Government’s Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030 pillar of inclusivity.
The Deputy Premier emphasised that parents and volunteers have long been the main service providers for the autism community. Their dedication ensures that individuals with autism receive the care and education they need to thrive.
The strong turnout at the food fair demonstrated a growing societal commitment to inclusivity and support for vulnerable groups.
As diagnostic capabilities improve, allowing for earlier identification of autism, the demand for specialised services like those provided by KAA is expected to remain steady.
The association’s reliance on community fundraising underscores the need for continued public engagement and financial support to maintain high-quality care standards.
The success of the 2026 food fair reflects a collective effort to uphold the values of compassion and mutual aid.
By supporting such initiatives, the people of Kuching contribute directly to the well-being of families affected by autism, helping to build a more inclusive and supportive society for all.
