KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Down Syndrome Association has proposed the establishment of a special school for children suffering from Down Syndrome to assist them lead a normal life.

Its president, Wan Hanizan Wan Ramlan, said the school could be set up by the government or the private sector.

He said Down syndrome children required a distinctive approach in terms of the spiritual, physical, educational and health care aspects.

Wan Hanizan said special care centres set up by non-governmental organisations now housed children with special needs such as the blind, the deaf and those with Down Syndrome and autism under one roof, which he pointed out was not appropriate.

"The response of individuals with disabilities varies in different cases. That is why those with Down Syndrome need to have their own school to facilitate monitoring for their effective development," he told Bernama.

Wan Hanizan also suggested that toll concessionaires employ physically challenged people as cashiers at toll plazas.

He said their families, especially the parents, should overcome their fears and allow their special children to work.

It was estimated that there were 50,000 Down Syndrome individuals nationwide at the moment, with one Down syndrome case for every 800 births. - Bernama

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