Hong Kong's leader pledged to foster an inclusive society for people with autism at an event marking World Autism Awareness Day. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu highlighted the need for better understanding and acceptance. A Unesco official said the city could become a global hub for autism support services.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu spoke on Thursday at an event marking the United Nations’ World Autism Awareness Day. “Awareness is our starting point. Inclusion is our destination. Action is the bridge that joins them,” he said.
Lee said the Hong Kong government is building that bridge through a life-course commitment to inclusion. They prioritise early identification and timely support, ensuring children and families receive help from the very start. Authorities offer tiered support for students with diverse learning needs at schools and partner with community organisations to enhance training and employment pathways for those with autism.
“Our goal is to help autistic people develop their talents, participate fully in society, and pursue lives of fulfilment,” Lee said. Unesco official Shahbaz Khan stated that Hong Kong has the potential to become a global hub for autism support services.
