Why Nasom is going the extra mile to help families of kids with autism

Inclusion gives kids with autism the chance to flourish and show the world their unique strengths. Photo: 123rf

The National Autism Society of Malaysia (Nasom) will be organising an awareness programme called Autism Inspiration: Hope Without a Full Stop (Inspirasi Autisme: Harapan Tanpa Noktah) on Dec 13, from 8.30am to 1pm. The event will be held at the Dewan Wadi Budi, International Islamic University Malaysia in Gombak, Selangor.

Nasom president Mohd Nazrul Mohd Amin says the programme aims to raise public understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) while offering support, knowledge and encouragement to families, caregivers and professionals.

Horse therapy helps children with autism improve balance, coordination and confidence. Photo: Nasom“Building awareness on autism is important because it helps the public understand the challenges and strengths of individuals on the spectrum. Through events and programmes, people can better understand autism.

“This helps reduce stigma and foster a more inclusive, supportive community for children and adults with autism,” Mohd Nazrul said in an interview in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

ASD is a lifelong developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts and experiences the world. It is not an illness that can be cured, and many individuals with autism require long-term support.

Nasom estimates that around 9,000 children in Malaysia are born with autism each year, underscoring the importance of early awareness and community understanding.

A range of activities has been planned for the programme.

Visitors can look forward to a talk by paediatric neurologist Dr Poorani Anandakrishnan, who will share insights into childhood development and early signs of autism.

Nutrition consultant Tan Yen Sing will speak on the role of diet in child development, while parents of autistic children can participate in a counselling session designed to address concerns, challenges and coping strategies.

There will also be demonstrations of various therapeutic approaches, including horse therapy by the Kuala Lumpur City Hall Horse Riding Unit trainer Abdullah Ismail, water therapy by Hamlatul Hawary Azizan, and art therapy by artist Khalid Mohd Sapari, all of which are commonly used to support individuals on the spectrum.

The event will also feature special shows, including a piano performance by Raees Aryan, who has autism, and a sharing session with autistic author Nur Arif Jasmin, who is currently pursuing his PhD in Islamic Studies.

Nur Arif authored Fiqh Autisme, a book on the Islamic jurisprudence on autism. He is also known for his love of dressing up as the Red Ranger from superhero TV series Power Rangers.  He will speak about his experiences, challenges and hopes of living with autism.

The event is co-organised with Experteam Consultant and supported by the university. Registor at experteam.maya.my/event/. Tickets are priced from RM34; all proceeds will be channelled to Nasom.

For details, visit nasom.org.my.