His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen in a sabda during the official opening of Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam School and its surau at Kampong Bengkurong on Thursday emphasised his family’s deep connection to the special needs community, highlighting the cause as one incredibly close to their hearts.
His Royal Highness remarked, “Pusat Ehsan represents more than just an organisation or a building; this is a place where every child, regardless of their abilities, will have the chance to learn and thrive.”
His Royal Highness shared that Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajah Maryam, under the patronage of his mother, Datin Paduka Seri Hajah Mariam binti Haji Abdul Aziz, was created with the mission to enhance the quality of life for all children within the special needs community through comprehensive education, vocational, and rehabilitative programs. “This mission has been a constant within our family for more than two decades,” he said. “My mother has championed this cause for as long as I can remember, and it is something that my wife and I wish to continue as we move forward in our lives too.”
His Royal Highness also highlighted the personal experiences of his family with the special needs community, which have fueled their determination to create a place where every child is valued, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. He described Pusat Ehsan’s evolution from a compassionate endeavour to the remarkable institution it is today, with a team of dedicated and experienced teaching staff, including therapists who are Allied Health Professionals endorsed by the Ministry of Health.
“The special needs community can often be sidelined, lacking the awareness and support it rightfully deserves. Pusat Ehsan is committed to changing this by advocating for inclusivity, understanding, and equal opportunities for all,” His Royal Highness stated.
His Royal Highness also acknowledged the importance of inclusive education, highlighting a recent titah by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on Teacher’s Day, where the efforts of the Ministry of Education in supporting the Pusat Ehsan Special Needs school were praised.
Before concluding his speech, His Royal Highness extended heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors whose continuous generosity and support have been instrumental in turning this vision into reality. – JAMES KON
