Her Royal Highness YAM Paduka Puteri Tunku Mariamz Al-Marhum Sultan Iskandar officiating the newly renovated Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Training Centre at Seri Mengasih, recently.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has made a leap in inclusive education and disability support with the launch of the newly-renovated Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Training Centre at Seri Mengasih here.
It is the only facility in Malaysia authorised to practise the renowned Kololo Method of educational training from Japan that emphasises group dynamics and structured learning for individuals with autism.
The refurbished centre in Tanjung Aru was launched by Yang Amat Mulia Paduka Puteri Tunku Mariamz Sultan Iskandar on Monday (June 16).
Her Royal Highness' presence underscored the national significance of the initiative and brought renewed attention to the need for comprehensive support for individuals with autism.
Seri Mengasih, which has served the special needs community for 44 years, is the sole centre in the country recognised by Kololo Japan to implement its structured ASD training method.
The Kololo Method is a unique form of early intervention, therapy, and vocational skills development for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Her Royal Highness YAM Paduka Puteri Tunku Mariamz Al-Marhum Sultan Iskandar posed in a group photo with Seri Mengasih’s Board of Trustees chairman, Datuk Suzannah Liaw (second left), Committee of Management chairman Tulip Noorazyze (second right), and others.
“This new centre is more than just a building," Seri Mengasih board of trustees chairman Datuk Suzannah Liaw said at the ceremony.
"It is a commitment to empowering individuals with ASD to lead meaningful, independent lives.
"We are incredibly honoured to receive the royal support of Yang Amat Mulia Paduka Puteri Tunku Mariamz, which elevates our efforts to the national stage,” she added.
The upgraded facility includes therapy rooms, sensory integration spaces, vocational training areas and specialised classrooms tailored to the unique learning styles of children and adults with ASD.
It enables the expansion of Seri Mengasih’s programmes in early intervention, social skills training and independent living education.
Her Royal Highness YAM Paduka Puteri Tunku Mariamz Al-Marhum Sultan Iskandar receiving a bouquet of flowers from one of the Seri Mengasih’s Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Training Centre pupils.
According to the facility’s management committee chairman Tulip Noorazyze, the Kololo Method has shown consistent success in helping students as young as three build essential skills and confidence.
“We have witnessed countless success stories with children who are now able to communicate better, manage themselves, and even hold jobs,” she said.
The launch marks a milestone not only for Seri Mengasih but for the broader movement towards disability inclusion in Malaysia, with the centre aiming to be a model for other states to emulate.
Tunku Mariamz’s involvement is expected to draw national attention and spark greater interest in strengthening autism-related services throughout the country.
“This is a proud moment for Sabah and a hopeful one for every Malaysian family affected by ASD,” said Liaw.
The Kololo Method was developed in Japan in 1980 by Ishii Hijiri and Saeko Kubota.
Rooted in brain development and behavioural change theories, it prioritises those with severe challenges.
The method focuses on group dynamics, recognising that social harmony and cooperation are essential for personal development.
The programme also supports home-based training, encouraging parents to play an active and positive role in helping their children live independently.
