RECEIVING a diagnosis of autism can be overwhelming for families, as symptoms can be different from one child to another depending on where he falls on the spectrum, says Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Country Head, Corporate Affairs, Nimmi Kamal, who is also on the board of trustees of the Standard Chartered Foundation (SCF).
Recognising the growing needs from caretakers of people with autism, SCF chose to champion autism awareness and education in 2014.
It began with providing financial support for the National Autism Society of Malaysia and collaborating with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to pilot an inclusive approach.
The goal? Making education for autism group accessible and affordable, as well as increasing autism awareness in Malaysia.
“We see the synergies in these partnerships where SCF provides financial support while UKM the research capabilities and facilities.
“Our first Autism Learning Series of educational books was a success and we have plans for a second series next year.
“We have signed a memorandum of understanding with UKM to strengthen our autism awareness agenda by providing education, funding Makmal Autisme and organising train-the-trainers courses,” said Nimmi.
SCF is the charity arm of Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia.
Since its inception in 2005 as the Standard Chartered Trust Fund, it has supported community-based programmes by focusing on youth, health and education.
In July last year, 60 children with autism attended a football clinic by Liverpool Academy coaches and former Liverpool FC player John Barnes in conjunction with LFC’s Asia Tour.
Other activities included social outings and running clinics that enabled caregivers to meet and network.
SCF has been a charity partner of the Standard Chartered Kuala Lumpur Marathon since 2010, through the marathon’s “Run for a Reason” (RFAR) initiative.
Funds raised last year were channelled to the foundation’s autism programmes.
To raise awareness, a 3km autism run was introduced.
SCF sold t-shirts specially designed by Shaun Gooi, a teenager with autism, to raise funds.
“Our hope is that with increased awareness, more people will learn about autism.
“This will foster greater understanding and allow the start of early intervention programmes.
“In the long run, we hope to see people with autism empowered to integrate and contribute to society,” said Nimmi.
SCF is working not only with UKM but also Permata Kurnia Autism Centre (established by the Prime Minister’s Office) and several other non-governmental organisations.
Besides employee volunteering opportunities, activities will also enable caregivers to meet and network.