To boost public awareness of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Kelab Ibubapa Kanak-Kanak Autisma Daerah Klang (Kelab Anugerah) will be holding the Sinar Anugerah 2026: Autism Social Integration and Talent Showcase on April 26.
Organised in collaboration with Klinik Kesihatan Bukit Kuda and Pejabat Kesihatan Daerah Klang, the programme is held in conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2.
The event will run from 7.30am to noon at Bangunan Kelab Sukan dan Rekreasi Lembaga Pelabuhan Kelang in Port Klang, Selangor.
Kelab Anugerah founder Dr Izan Hairani Ishak said the event aims to raise public understanding of ASD while promoting social integration and stronger community support."Anugerah was founded with the hope of building a supportive community where families of children with autism can find understanding, encouragement and strength together. Events like Sinar Anugerah 2026 remind us that every child has unique abilities that deserve to be celebrated and supported by society," she said in a press release.
Dr Izan Hairani founded Anugerah in 2019 to build a supportive network for families of autistic children, while increasing awareness, acceptance and inclusion in the wider community.
It conducts activities like workshops, community outings and skill–building programmes to support and empower parents. These activities are designed to provide parents with practical knowledge, emotional support and opportunities to connect with others.
Through these initiatives, Kelab Anugerah aims to create a supportive community where parents feel guided, encouraged and better equipped to support their children’s development.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts and experiences the world. It is not an illness, and many autistic individuals may require different forms of long–term support.
According to the National Autism Society of Malaysia (Nasom), around 9,000 children in Malaysia are born with autism each year, underscoring the importance of early awareness and stronger community understanding.
The Sinar Anugerah 2026 event will feature piano and musical performances by children with autism, as well as group dance and zumba sessions, and a fashion showcase highlighting their creativity and self-expression.
Also on the programme are traditional cultural dances representing Malaysia's diverse heritage, alongside a 1.5km community brisk walk involving families and members of the public.
Tickets are priced at RM30. For more information, visit www.ticket2u.com.my.
