26/04/2026

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday APR 26, 2026

Heightening autism awareness via walkathon

a very good experience. My son really enjoyed it.” Catherine Gan, 69, whose 34-year-old son has Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, emphasised the importance of greater awareness and acceptance within society. She said exposure is key in shaping public attitudes, as people in some overseas countries are more aware and accepting of children with special needs. – By QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI KUALA LUMPUR: Burnout is a prominent concern among the Generation Z group, commonly known as Gen Z, with 45% of them regularly feeling exhausted at work, according to a nationwide survey. The poll by Jobstreet by SEEK Malaysia also found that Gen Z happiness is strongly shaped by both day-to-day responsibilities (61%) and purpose at work (65%), making it critical that they see meaning in what they do and not just complete tasks. Jobstreet by SEEK Malaysia managing director Nicholas Lam told theSun that the survey recorded responses from 1,000 workers across diverse demographics, regions and industries throughout Malaysia. “Malaysian workers ranked work-life balance as a key priority, with 41% of respondents saying that improving it would make them happier at work, second only to salary as the most desired change. “Only 42% are satisfied with their current workload, while 36% are happy with their stress levels, indicating a clear gap between expectations and reality.” Lam said workplace experiences differ across generations, with Millennials and Gen X placing greater emphasis on how work fits into their broader life stage and responsibilities. For Millennials (30–44 years), flexibility is a key enabler of workplace happiness (62%), alongside purpose (64%) and day-to-day responsibilities (65%). For Gen X (45–59) workplace satisfaction is influenced by relationships with managers (52%), company values (55%), and senior leadership (49%). Lam added that the survey was conducted between October and November 2025 by Nature, an award-winning strategic advisory firm, on behalf of Jobstreet by SEEK. Survey shows prevalent work burnout among Gen Z Ű BY ANDREW SAGAYAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Event aimed at strengthening public understanding while encouraging inclusive society through active

community participation

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING conjunction Autism Awareness Month in April, the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development (the official charity and social welfare arm of the Catholic Church) held an autism walkathon yesterday as part of a community initiative promoting autism awareness and inclusion. Its director Dr Gary Liew said the event was aimed at enhancing public understanding of autism while encouraging a more inclusive society through active community participation and shared engagement. “The programme brought together different communities regardless of race or religion. “This is about coming together as one Malaysia, one community, to walk together and show unity,” he added. Liew said while similar events have been held before, initiatives like this continue to play an important role in strengthening awareness and encouraging greater community inclusion of individuals with autism. He expressed hope that such initiatives would continue and expand to local communities nationwide. “This is a walkathon that everyone can join, whether young, elderly or persons with JAYA: In with

Isaiah joining participants and their families during the event held at Taman Jaya Park in Petaling Jaya yesterday. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

from different communities and backgrounds to connect.” Priscilla added that preparation played a key role in helping her children participate comfortably. “Programmes like this give them something to look forward to and ensure they are not left out.” A 39-year-old mother, who gave her name only as Meenu, said her nine-year-old child with autism and cerebral palsy benefitted from programmes like the walkathon. “It’s our first time joining, and it’s framework, the responsibility to protect and support PwD lies primarily with the government, while NGOs play a supporting role. “NGOs should not be viewed as the main party responsible, but rather as partners that complement government efforts.” Isaiah said programmes such as the walkathon are just a starting point in broader efforts to build awareness and inclusion. He also called on companies and institutions to provide employment opportunities for individuals with autism. “Many organisations have already started hiring individuals with autism,” he said. He urged both government agencies and private companies to provide opportunities rather than exclusion. “Give them the space, time and opportunity, as they are capable and different in their own way,” he said.

“They tend to perceive them as something unfamiliar or foreign,” he said. He stressed that change must also come through religious and community institutions. “Places of worship such as mosques, surau , churches and temples can play an important role in raising awareness and improving understanding of autism and other groups within the persons with disability community,” he added. Isaiah pointed to three key issues – acceptance, lack of awareness and limited community involvement. He also lamented the lack of political engagement on the issue, saying that despite government incentives, some MPs are not giving sufficient attention to PwD related matters in their constituencies. “I am very disappointed that many MPs do not take this seriously, even though the central government provides various support and incentives. “Based on the United Nations

disabilities (PwD). The idea is that we are journeying together.” On awareness, Liew said while public understanding of autism exists, deeper engagement is still lacking. He emphasised that families affected by autism share similar hopes, struggles and emotions with others in society. “Inclusion does not require large-scale events alone, but can begin in everyday interactions. “Even a simple smile or greeting can make someone feel included. It is about acknowledging their presence and making them feel welcome in the community,” he said. Senator Isaiah Jacob echoed a similar view, saying that Malaysia still has a long way to go in shifting public perception and embracing true inclusion. “In our society, we are still lagging far behind. Many people still do not understand what autism is, and other developmental conditions such as Down syndrome.

Parents laud activity for special children PETALING JAYA: More than just a walk in the park, an autism walkathon brought together numerous participants in a cheerful push for inclusion and acceptance of children with autism in everyday community life. health and that even small steps can become meaningful milestones. “She shares inspiring songs and videos with him, and that builds his excitement and mindset to be more active,” he said. help keep individuals with special needs active and engaged in the community. “They deserve all the love in the world, so we should keep this going and continue spreading that love,” he said.

Priscilla Gomez, 50, a mother of two autistic children, said the programme helped foster inclusivity by bringing together children of different backgrounds. “It’s about inclusivity, allowing children to interact, understand one another, and also for parents

Emmanuel said his 16-year-old brother, who has a genetic developmental disorder linked to a chromosome condition, enjoys outdoor activities and was naturally drawn to the event. He expressed hope that such initiatives would continue, as they

For Emmanuel Miranda, 28, his younger brother was encouraged to join the walk through consistent motivation from family members, particularly their aunt. “She constantly encourages him, telling him it’s good for his