The Malaysian police have pledged to enhance sensitivity training for officers interacting with autistic individuals. Inspector-General of Police Mohd Khalid Ismail made the announcement during the Autism Day celebration on May 16, 2026, reaffirming Bukit Aman's commitment to the autism community and the Pengaman-Police Autism Centre [1].
The Pengaman-Police Autism Centre was established in August 2020 to demonstrate the police force’s role beyond law enforcement [1, 2]. The centre adopts a holistic approach that includes early intervention and emotional support aimed at helping autistic children reach their full potential [1, 2].
Bukit Aman said strong collaboration between police, Yayasan Pengaman Malaysia, government agencies, and NGOs is vital to supporting autistic children and their families [1, 2]. Inspector-General Mohd Khalid described autism as "not a deficiency that needs to be cured, but rather a unique variation of human individuality," underscoring the force’s inclusive outlook [2].
The police acknowledge that public backing has been crucial to the centre's growth and to improving affordable early intervention services [1]. Mohd Khalid urged all stakeholders to invest time, energy, and resources to ensure a more inclusive and equitable society, stating, "We must not allow anyone to be marginalised or left behind in the nation's development" [2].
Police said they will continue strengthening sensitivity training to ensure officers handle interactions with autistic individuals professionally and compassionately [1, 2]. They hope the Pengaman-Police Autism Centre will become a leading centre of excellence for autism intervention in Malaysia and the region [1, 2].
