July 9, 2024 – The National Autism Resource Centre (NARC), College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) has hosted a three-day Autism Awareness Programme 2024, an event to increase awareness, understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals with autism. The program was held at AEON Mall in Shah Alam, from June 7-9, 2024, and brought together various organizations and experts in the field.
Collaborators for this event include The National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), DOW Malaysia, and AEON Mall Shah Alam. The program featured various activities designed to educate and engage the public on autism. Informative sharing sessions from UiTM experts, PM Dr Ilham bt Wan Mokhtar and Dr Mohd Yusof Zulkefli cover crucial topics such as oral health routines for autistic children and addressing the self-care needs of autistic children during puberty, respectively. Madam Siti Fauzliana bt Abdul Razak, founder of Sedar Autism shared her experience in raising her three special daughters and Mr. Foo Han Piew from Yayasan Gamuda Enabling Academy spoke about sustainable employment for neurodivergent individuals. The event features a special sharing session by Kita Family Podcast, offering attendees a heartfelt and authentic perspective on raising a child with autism. This addition to the program provides valuable insights and support for families navigating similar experiences. The audience was entertained by stage performances from autistic individuals showcasing their talents.
Information and sales booths from various organizations including Anis Selangor, Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat Shah Alam, NASOM, MySimplyGifted, Lexiatism, Muaz Khat, JAZRO Robotic Academy, and Al Kauthar EduQids, offered resources and support to families and individuals with autism.
Early autism screening services are provided by therapists from NASOM and final-year students from the Faculty of Health Science, UiTM. The early autism screening service garnered positive responses from participating parents. Madam Norzaiti, mother of a 3-year-old boy, shared her experience: “I’ve been concerned about my son’s development for a while, but I wasn’t sure where to turn. The screening here was so accessible and the therapists were incredibly kind and informative. It’s given us a clear next step.” Another parent, Mr Chin , expressed gratitude: “The screening process was quick and non-invasive. The therapists explained everything clearly and provided us with resources for follow-up. It’s comforting to know there’s support available, regardless of the outcome.”
These screenings and sharing sessions not only provide valuable insights for families but also contribute to early intervention efforts and community support, which are crucial for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. This event represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and understanding society for those on the autism spectrum. By bringing together professionals, families, and the public, Autism Awareness 2024 aims to foster a supportive community and promote greater acceptance of neurodiversity.
Writer : Zarina Zainol, Sanizah Ahmad, Rosanita Adnan, Norkhushaini Awang
Editor : Suzana Zambri