Early screenings make sure no children are spared education support

MIRI, 11 Nov: Efforts to identify the developmental needs of children from an early age continue to be strengthened in Sarawak through filtering and intervention programmes to ensure that each child receives appropriate support to reach their potential.

Sarawak's Deputy Minister of Women and Child Development, Datuk Rosey Yunus said that the disparity in the development rate between children should not be a reason to isolate them, but instead requires an appropriate approach and support.

"Early retaliation is not aimed at labeling or comparing children. Rather, it helps identify the forms of support they need so that they do not miss out on space to grow, learn and reach their best potential", he said.

He said this through the text of his speech read by Deputy Mayor Miri, Ariffin Mohamad at the Sarawak SeDidik Convocation Council of the 35th Miri Zone in 2026, here today.

Through the TOY8 Digital Developmental Screening and Intervention Programme, a total of 140 Sedidik teachers have been trained, while 1,559 children from nine Sedidik centres have completed development filters.

For the first cohort involving 484 children, 49 identified children in need of support have continued structured interventions.

Meanwhile, for the second cohort involving 1,025 children, a total of 286 were identified to participate in the six-month intervention program.

He said the achievements highlighted the importance of empowering educators with knowledge and skills so that they can identify children's needs and work together with parents and stakeholders.

"A total of 30,695 out of 31,035 children entering Year One in 2026 were enrolled in preschool education, equivalent to 98.9 percent.

"However, access to preschool education alone is not sufficient without ensuring inclusive learning quality and meeting the developmental needs of each child", he added.

He believes that a good educational environment should not only provide learning space, but also make children feel safe, valued and accepted regardless of their background or ability.

Thus, cooperation between governments, educational institutions, parents and communities must continue to be strengthened to ensure that children's development is fully implemented, including education, protection and welfare. - TVS