Gov’t to launch new early treatment centers for children with developmental disabilities

Two new early treatment centers will commence operations in 2025 for children with developmental disabilities, the Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) announced. According to Yu Ka Wai, director of rehabilitation services at IAS, the early treatment centers will bolster parental support in caring for children with developmental disabilities.

Two new facilities are set to open next year: an early treatment center for children aged 0-3 and a comprehensive day service center for individuals with disabilities. The day service center, located in Mong Ha Social Housing, is scheduled to open next month in December.

In his speech, Wai reiterated that future phases of the rehabilitation action plan will focus on smart technology, barrier-free construction, and fostering a socially inclusive environment. The inclusive cultural and arts fair was jointly organized by seven government departments, showcasing performances from 22 institutions and schools.

The official was speaking on the sidelines of the bureau’s “Inclusive Arts and Crafts Performance,” held at the Macau Tower Convention and Exhibition Center yesterday, aimed at showcasing the talents of individuals with disabilities while promoting diversity and inclusion.

The performance was strategically scheduled to align with the upcoming International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) on Dec. 3.

This United Nations-sanctioned day aims to raise awareness about the rights of persons with disabilities, with this year’s theme focusing on integration and participation to foster a more inclusive society. According to the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC), approximately 2.5% of Macau’s population, or around 16,000 individuals, live with disabilities.

Hon Wai, director of IAS, underscored the importance of providing a platform for individuals with disabilities to express their creativity.

The event featured performances from 16 groups representing various sectors, including schools, child and youth services, and rehabilitation organizations.

Participants included members from the Macau Intellectual Services Association and the Macau Parents’ Association for the Disabled, presenting a diverse program that included lion dances, fashion shows, martial arts demonstrations, and sign language performances.

To enhance accessibility, organizers installed large screens displaying live sign language translation and captions, ensuring that all attendees could engage fully. In his address, Mr. Wai expressed gratitude to participating organizations and emphasized the significance of collaboration among government departments and private institutions in promoting rehabilitation services.

He highlighted that, as of September, Macau’s 10-Year Action Plan for Rehabilitation Services had achieved an impressive completion rate of 97.8%.

Looking ahead, he outlined plans to improve independent living opportunities through smart technology and barrier-free environments. Nadia Shaw