Page 25 - Mainstreamer Volume 1 Issue 2 Feb 2023

THE SUMMARY
However, due to limited time and resources, the
data does not fully represent the actual situation
of people with autism. The data contained in this
document is intended for general information and
reference only.
“ total of 160,881 persons with disabilities.
The combination of international
commitment and national autism
plans is essential to meet the
objectives of an inclusive society”
In general, most AMSs commit to protecting the
rights of persons with disabilities, including those
with autism, through international and national
legislations and policies. These ensure that they
have access to education, healthcare, shelter, and
security, among other things.
At the national level, each AMS has amended
laws and launched many policies pertaining to
autistic persons. The combination of international
commitment and national autism plans is essential
to meet the objectives of an inclusive society.
Most ASEAN countries make an effort to supply
data on persons with autism. However, the data
is limited since autism is difficult to identify, and
it is often classified under one of several types of
hidden disabilities. The statistics on autism in each
ASEAN country are shown below.
1. Brunei Darussalam
There were 1,858 children and youth with
autism in 2019. As many as 1,329 males or 72%
and 529 females or 28% were diagnosed with
autism.
2. Cambodia
There were 941 males and 372 females with
autism reported from the total population
of 1,313 people in 18 provinces out of 25
provinces in Cambodia.
3. Indonesia
The total number of persons with disabilities
is 161,541 people, of which 2,729 are persons
with autism in 2019. In every 59 persons with
disabilities, there is 1 person with autism.
4. Lao PDR
Currently, Lao PDR has no specific data on the
number of persons with autism, however, the
number of persons with autism is included in a
5. Malaysia
In 2018, the number of registered autistic
prevalence of persons with autism in Malaysia is
individuals in Malaysia was 21,287 people. The
approximately 1.6 in 1,000. In 2015, there were
305 cases compared to 473 cases in 2016, while
515 cases were reported in 2017.
6. Myanmar
The First Myanmar National Disability Survey
from 2008 to 2009 stated that 2.32% are
disabled and the prevalence rates of persons
with disabilities. But, no specific data on the
number of persons with autism.
7. Philippines
The severe disability prevalence in 2016 was
12% in the Philippines. But, no specific data on
the number of persons with autism.
8. Singapore
In Singapore approximately one in 150 children
has autism.
9. Thailand
Data as of 31 October 2018, 2,041,159 people
registered as persons with disabilities, and
12,297 (0.60%) were categorised as persons
with autism (0.60%).
10. Vietnam
By the end of 2018, an estimated 1.5 million
persons with disabilities were granted
certificates of disabilities. In addition, there are
about 200,000 people with autism recorded in
Vietnam.
AMS’s programs and services for persons
with autism cover 5 areas. Most Southeast Asian
countries have an early intervention program for
children under the age of 6. Each AMS has its own
method and programs for specific intervention
for autistic children, which vary among countries
based on facilities, expertise, and financial support.
Vol. 01, Issue 2 | February 2023 24