In a historic moment during Malaysia’s 68th Independence Day celebration, Building C.A.R.E. (Children. Autism. Resilience. Empowered), an Adventist-led autism advocacy group, joined the national parade in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.

The one-year-old organization, created under the umbrella of the Adventist Possibility Ministry, marched alongside 169 contingents representing government agencies, private institutions, and non-governmental organizations. Building C.A.R.E. was the first NGO group to step forward in the parade, capturing the attention of thousands of onlookers.

Thirty-six participants—including parents of autistic children, mentors, teachers, and Adventist leaders—carried their message of hope through their advocacy slogan: “Everyone is needed, gifted, and treasured.” Their presence was greeted with cheers and applause as they passed dignitaries and spectators along the parade route.

“Never in my dream that I will be marching on a national day parade advocating for a cause that is close to my heart as my child has Autism,” said Sue, the group’s president-elect.

A Growing Need for Support

Autism diagnoses in Malaysia have surged dramatically. Cases registered with the Department of Social Welfare rose from 6,991 in 2013 to 53,323 in 2023—an increase of about 663 percent. A separate report from late 2024 raised that figure to nearly 64,000 children, marking an 815 percent rise over the past decade.

Among school-age children, autism prevalence has climbed from 6.34 per 1,000 in 2018 to 9.29 per 1,000 in 2022. Meanwhile, earlier estimates suggest that 1 in 600 Malaysian children are on the autism spectrum.

These figures reflect both improved awareness and a clear societal imperative for support, inclusion, and early intervention. Autism families often face emotional, financial, and social strains, and the rising number of diagnoses underscores the need for deeper community engagement

Launched in July 2024, Building C.A.R.E. has grown to nearly 200 members, offering social support, community connections, and encouragement for families raising autistic children in Sabah. The initiative is directed by Dr. Jane Botabara-Yap for the Malaysia Union, with Doreen Lim leading in Sabah Mission.

Why Building C.A.R.E. Matters

Malaysia continues to face significant challenges in supporting children with autism. Limited access to early screening, a shortage of trained professionals, and insufficient education and therapeutic resources leave many families struggling to find the help they need. Building C.A.R.E. steps into this gap by providing networks of support, mentorship, and a safe space where families feel seen, heard, and empowered.

Beyond offering practical support, the group plays an important role in shaping public awareness. Its participation in events such as the national day parade helps destigmatize autism and reminds the wider community of the dignity and worth of neurodiverse individuals. Carrying the message “Everyone is needed, gifted, and treasured” affirmed that inclusion is not only possible but vital for society’s growth.

At its core, Building C.A.R.E. also reflects the values of the Adventist Possibility Ministry. The initiative embodies the conviction that all people are cherished by God and have a unique place in His mission. By marching alongside other national contingents, the group demonstrated how faith-based organizations can bridge advocacy, service, and spiritual witness, offering hope both to families directly affected by autism and to the broader community learning to embrace diversity.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.