Jakarta, 22 August 2024: ERIA, in collaboration with Japan’s Nozominosono (The National Centre for Persons with Severe Intellectual Disabilities) and The LSPR Institute of Communication & Business, proudly launched three significant guidebooks aimed at enhancing disability awareness and support throughout the ASEAN region. The guidebooks are:

1. Parent Training, Parent Mentoring, and Coaching Guidebook for Parents of Children with Developmental Disorders in Southeast Asia
2. Current Status and Issues of Healthcare Policies for Persons with Developmental Disorders in Southeast Asia
3. Development of a Coaching-based Guidebook to Enhance the Quality of Life of Parents of Persons with Developmental Disorders in Southeast Asia

These publications were officially introduced during a ceremony at the LSPR Institute in Jakarta, Indonesia, on 22 August 2024. The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Dr (H. C) Prita Kemal Gani, Founder & CEO of LSPR Institute; Kazuo Chujo, Deputy Head of Mission, Mission of Japan to ASEAN; Dr Yasuyuki Mitsuhashi, ERIA Senior Policy Fellow on Healthcare; Dr Ryuhei Sano, Project Leader at Nozominosono; and Dr Rudi Sukandar, Director of Research & Community Service at LSPR Institute.

ERIA’s Senior Policy Fellow, Dr Yasuyuki Mitsuhashi, emphasised the significance of these publications in his remarks. He stated, ‘These publications symbolise hope, knowledge, and empowerment. They reflect our dedication to improving the lives of persons with developmental disorders and their families through collaboration, research, and informed policies.’

This milestone represents the culmination of an extensive research project initiated in 2021, dedicated to addressing the challenges of developmental disorders faced by ASEAN member countries through meticulously crafted guidelines. The collaborative research effort was driven by the pressing need for comprehensive policy research and practical guidelines to support parents of children with developmental disorders. Families and individuals with these disorders often encounter numerous challenges, including limited access to healthcare services, education, employment opportunities, and social participation.

Consequently, these guidebooks are designed to provide practical, user-friendly information to caregivers, educators, and policymakers, striving to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities. Available in English, Indonesian, and Japanese, these resources are expected to significantly enhance understanding and support amongst parents, caregivers, health and education professionals, and policymakers in the ASEAN region.

The launch of these guidebooks marks a significant step forward in disability awareness and support in Southeast Asia. By offering valuable insights into current healthcare policies, training and mentoring guides, and addressing prevalent health service challenges, these publications aim to create a more inclusive society for all.