Participants step up for awareness and support for individuals on the autism spectrum.
PETALING JAYA, April 30, 2024 — Taarana School, an education and therapy centre for children with cognitive and sensory impairments, made remarkable strides in raising autism awareness last Saturday. The school organised a dynamic ‘Walk for Autism’ at the PKNS Sports Complex here, demonstrating its commitment to fostering greater understanding and support of individuals with autism.
Taarana was established under the aegis of RYTHM Foundation, the social impact initiative of the global conglomerate QI Group. QI’s employees, senior executives, and members of the Board of Directors joined the school’s students, their families, and guests on the walk.
Participants united in a spirited warm-up session before embarking on the 45-minute walk. This pre-walk activity not only prepared them physically but also fostered a strong sense of unity and shared purpose, as they prepared to stride together in support of autism awareness.
The event’s highlight was not just the walk but the overwhelming sense of accomplishment it brought. The first 50 participants to complete the walk were celebrated with medals for their achievements. QI’s Group General Manager, Kuna Senathirajah; Director of Human Resources and Administration, Boey Kho; Director of Marketing and Sales, Pathman Senathirajah; Taarana’s Principal, Dr Sunitha Sivakumaran, and several senior executives presented the medals.
Later, e-certificates of participation would be sent to all participants, providing everyone with something to cherish and be proud of.
Following the invigorating walk, the event buzzed with various engaging booth activities. These ranged from games to resources and services, providing valuable information on medical and therapy services and skills training for employability. This comprehensive approach to autism support was a testament to the event’s commitment to making a lasting impact.
“By organising Taarana’s ‘Walk for Autism,’ we aimed to do more than raise awareness; we sought to tangibly demonstrate our steadfast dedication to inclusivity and unwavering support for individuals on the autism spectrum,” the Head of RYTHM Foundation, Santhi Periasamy, highlighted.
“This event was a vivid testament to our commitment to nurturing a community founded on empathy, understanding, and acceptance — values we endeavour to cultivate and uphold,” Santhi said.
The walk highlighted the impact of collective action in raising awareness and promoting acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum. Siti Fatimah, a parent of a Taarana student, emphasised how the event extended beyond mere participation.
“It is not just about the walk itself; it is about building a community where everyone feels included and valued,” she said. “Initiatives like these go a long way in shaping a more understanding and supportive society for our children and future generations.”
Taarana’s ‘Walk for Autism’ stands as a testament to the power of collective action in fostering awareness, understanding, and inclusivity for individuals on the autism spectrum and other neurodiverse individuals. Through the unwavering dedication of participants, volunteers, and supporters, the event raised vital awareness and celebrated the achievements and contributions of those with autism.
About Taarana School
Established in 2011, Taarana School seeks to unlock every child’s potential to help them face the future with independence and conviction. The school offers a broad and balanced curriculum that meets the needs of children with cognitive and sensory impairments that significantly impact their daily functioning and require accommodations or specialised services. Learning, therapy, and skills development are personalised to help students fulfil their potential. Learn more about Taarana and its programmes at www.taarana.org.my/
About RYTHM Foundation
RYTHM Foundation, the heart of social impact for the QI Group, champions Education, Empowerment, and Environmental Sustainability. An acronym for “Raise Yourself To Help Mankind,” RYTHM embodies the QI Group’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Since 2005, RYTHM Foundation has reached over 80,000 individuals across more than 20 countries, partnering with over 115 organisations to launch more than 50 sustainable projects. Our initiatives, particularly in education, women’s empowerment, and inclusive support for youth and individuals with disabilities, have garnered international recognition, including prestigious awards in India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Ghana. Discover more about our impact at www.rythmfoundation.org
For media enquiries, please contact:
Anita Pandian ([email protected])
PR Manager, Communications
QI Group
