Learn how to make doctor visits easier for kids with autism. Get practical tips on preparing them, managing sensory triggers, and working with healthcare pros for a smoother experience. Find out how to reduce stress and make appointments more comfortable for your child.
Rare diseases, though individually uncommon, collectively impact millions of people worldwide. Alagille Syndrome (ALGS) is one such rare genetic disorder that affects multiple organ systems, most notably the liver, heart, and skeletal system. As we observe Rare Disease Day, which falls on February 28th, it is an opportunity to raise awareness about conditions like ALGS and highlight the importance of early diagnosis, research, and access to specialized care
One major concern for parents of children with disabilities is the uncertainty of their child's
future after their death, particularly for those with high support needs. In Malaysia, there is a
growing awareness of this issue, but national support mechanisms are still lacking, placing
much responsibility on parents, family support networks, and civil society organizations
(CSOs).
Desiree & Saiqa are mothers raising neurodivergent children. They run an online support group discussion, every month on various topics. These sessions are for parents / caregivers / family members to talk about themselves and their challenges. Join them for…
Caring for a child with autism or special needs comes with unique challenges, including access to education, therapy, and financial support. Fortunately, several government and state initiatives in Malaysia offer financial assistance to help ease the burden on families.
The Persons with Disabilities (PWD) or Orang Kurang Upaya (OKU) community of Malaysia applauds Justice Quay Chew Soon for his historic 16 January 2025 decision on OKU right to freedom from discrimination in employment. This decision upholds the constitutional right of all Malaysians under art. 8 (1) of the Federal Constitution, regardless of ability, to seek public sector employment.
The 4th SEN Symposium, held on 16 November 2024 at the Royale Chulan Damanara, in conjunction with Kiwanis Malaysia's ongoing commitment to inclusivity, welcomed a distinguished lineup of guests. Among the honored attendees were the Guest of Honor, Dr. Hjh Yatela Zainal Abidin from Yayasan Sime Darby, Mama Kiwanis Puan Sri Christine Khir Johari, Chairman of the Kiwanis Khir Johari Foundation, Dato’ Stewart LaBrooy, Chairman of Kiwanis Malaysia Academy, Advisor Dato’ Fatimah Saad, and Organizing Chairman Miss Desiree Kaur, alongside Kiwanis Malaysia District Governor, Ms. Olivia Chin. The event was well attended with some 180 participants consisting parents, centre operators,
Join Desiree & Saiqa ~ Supporting U in October 2024.
October is a significant month for raising awareness and celebrating neurodiversity. It’s a time to promote inclusivity, challenge stigmas, and advocate for the acceptance of individuals who think, learn, and experience the world differently. While neurodiversity covers a broad spectrum of conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more, October is filled with key observances that recognize the strengths and challenges of these diverse minds.
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a behavior profile within the autism spectrum characterized by an extreme avoidance of everyday demands and expectations, often driven by high levels of anxiety. Despite growing recognition of PDA, particularly in the UK, it is not formally recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is the leading diagnostic tool used by mental health professionals globally.
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