Taarana School Principal Dr. Sunitha Sivakumaran recently appeared on TheGoodCastShow hosted by Mr. Vinodh Rajendran for an in-depth conversation on parenting, purpose, and the evolving landscape of special needs education in Malaysia.
Her story began with a personal turning point—her son’s autism diagnosis—leading her away from a successful law career and into a new chapter shaped by caregiving and advocacy.
She spoke with disarming clarity about the unseen work many families do: coordinating multiple therapies, decoding behavioural shifts, and navigating social expectations. But throughout the episode, her outlook remained grounded in possibility. With the right structure, time, and understanding, children with learning differences can thrive in ways many don’t immediately expect.
Reflecting on what inclusive education could look like, Dr. Sunitha called for practical reforms such as smaller class sizes, tailored learning plans, and educators trained to meet diverse developmental needs. She highlighted the need for long-term collaboration between families, schools, and professionals to create meaningful and consistent progress.
To fellow parents, her message was equal parts hope and practicality: stay attuned to what sparks your child’s curiosity, surround yourself with support, and let go of rigid expectations. Every child’s path is different, and every small step is worth celebrating.
Watch the full episode below to hear the full conversation and gain insight into what it truly means to walk this journey.
