I started my internship at an early intervention for autism centre in Gombak to complete my university graduation requirement. Before the internship, I had zero interaction with people with autism so I didn't know what to expect. Azri is currently 3 years old and, as a person with autism, hits his head with any object he could get his hands on. 

Autism is known to inhibit communication skills but many misinterpret this lack of speech as a sign of a significant cognitive disability. While some children with autism do have lower intelligence, others do not. This is why it is referred to as autism spectrum disorder—the problems with communication, intelligence, and behavior are highly variable, as I discovered in my work. In fact, many persons with ASD will dramatically improve with proper therapy and treatment. Too often, however, it is believed that persons with ASD will never get far in life. And, sometimes meeting an autistic child in person only serves to reaffirm this stereotype.

My experiences working with people on the spectrum has led me to believe that we, as a society, need to develop a deeper understanding of autism, as well as empathize better with those living with the disorder. After all, we need to learn to accept differences in all people, helping others without judgment. 

I have chosen the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM) @ Gombak as an effort to raise money because centre is currently facing financial problems. NASOM is dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and helping them lead meaningful and quality lives. Its mission is to advocate for the rights of people with autism and in doing so provide opportunities for them to learn and lead a productive and fulfilling life. The services consist of education and vocational/life skills training.