What drives Nasom to keep organising its Autism Walk year after year

Nasom's 2023 Walk was a step forward in raising awareness and building greater understanding of autism. Photos: National Autism Society of Malaysia

Looking for a meaningful event to add to your calendar?

Sign up for the National Autism Society of Malaysia's (Nasom) Autism Walk 2025 - a feel-good, do-good event that brings together people of all ages in support of the autism community.Taking place on Aug 16 (6.30am) at Citta Mall in Ara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the 3km walk is more than a fitness outing - it's a vibrant celebration of inclusion, unity and community spirit.

Nasom chairman Julian Wong, 45, says the event is designed to raise awareness, foster acceptance and spark vital conversations about autism and neurodiversity in Malaysia.

"The walk is much more than a charity event; it’s a powerful statement of visibility, belonging and solidarity," says Wong in an interview in Kuala Lumpur recently.

"For Nasom, it represents a powerful platform to raise awareness, reduce stigma and foster greater public understanding of autism. For families, educators and individuals on the spectrum, it's a rare moment of communal celebration - one that says, unequivocally, 'You are seen, heard and valued'," he shares.

Creating awareness about autism is about fostering empathy and support for the diverse ways people experience life.

In Malaysia, public discourse around neurodiversity is still growing. Events like this walk help bridge understanding and invite everyone to play a role in building a more empathetic and inclusive society.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts and experiences the world. It’s not an illness that can be cured, and individuals with autism often need long-term support.

There are around 9,000 children in Malaysia born with autism each year, according to Nasom.

Signs of autism can vary widely but may include challenges with social interaction, difficulty interpreting non-verbal communication, strong focus on particular interests, sensory sensitivities, and a preference for routines and predictability.

Since its inaugural walk in 2011, Nasom has continuously expanded its outreach through events such as the Love and Beauty Run with Mary Kay (2019), the Danajamin Mighty 7 Run (2019), and the Eco Run for Inclusion (2023) with Dow and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

This year, nearly 500 participants have already signed up for the walk, and Wong is hopeful that more will join in to help raise funds for essential services, including education and therapy for autistic individuals.

By uniting communities, the 2023 Eco Run for Inclusion shone a light on autism awareness.

He also hopes participants will leave with a sense of connection and a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways people experience and engage with the world.

"Whether they're walking alongside families impacted by autism or joining for the first time to learn more, participants will witness resilience, joy and community in action.

"Our goal is that the walk sparks curiosity and compassion. Maybe someone will be inspired to volunteer, support inclusive education, or simply be kinder and more patient in daily interactions. Every step taken is a step toward more understanding - and that's a powerful takeaway."

The event is open to people of all ages and fitness levels. Registration closes July 31, with fees at RM30 (students), RM35 (children), RM60 (adults) and RM150 (family package). It's free for OKU cardholders.

Each participant will receive a jersey, string bag, finisher's medal and complimentary mineral water, bread and vouchers.

The event doesn’t end at the finish line. Stick around for the Finish Festival, a lively post-walk celebration featuring the Expression Wall Art with NakSeni where you can contribute to a live mural, expressing thoughts and emotions through colour, texture and form.

There is also The Colour of Sounds' Drum Circle, an inclusive rhythm experience open to people of all ages and abilities. Participants can also try out tactile games and activities designed for sensory exploration.

"This isn't just a walk — it's a space of acceptance, celebration and playful discovery. We've designed the atmosphere to be welcoming, intuitive and full of shared joy," says Wong.

For more details, go to ticket2u.com.my or email [e-mail]