Ambassador of Indonesia Ridwan Hassan presenting a gift to Dr. Hisham Rustom from HMC, who led the discussion.
Doha: The Indonesian Embassy in Doha in collaboration with the Qatar Parents’ Support Group, conducted a discussion with the theme “Qatar Experience: Healthcare for People with Special Needs” recently.
The event was led by Dr. Hisham Rustom, an expert in Intellectual Disability and Development Disorder from Hamad Medical Corporation. It was attended by Indonesian diaspora in Qatar who are members of the Parents’ Support Group (PSG), an Indonesian community group in Qatar whose members are parents of children with special needs.
To reach participants from other countries, this event was also broadcast online.
Indonesian Ambassador H E Ridwan Hassan said access to education and health for children with special needs must be met. “Qatar is a country that pays high attention to children with special needs. Therefore, this event is a very good vehicle for us to share experiences and knowledge.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Rustom in his presentation conveyed the importance of detection or clinical assessment of children suspected of having special needs. With correct assessment, parents and doctors can figure out the most appropriate treatment that can be given. He also asserted that children with special needs have rights that must be fulfilled.
“As humans, they also have human rights,” said Dr. Hisham, referring to several provisions in international bodies on children’s rights.
“The Qatari government has fully provided facilities and policies for children who have special needs,” he added.
In addition to collaborating with PSG, the discussion was also held with the support of the Indonesian Community Association in Qatar (PERMIQA), Dharma Wanita Persatuan of the Indonesian Embassy in Doha and the Indonesian Student Association in Qatar (PPIQ).
