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.
Kiwanis Malaysia Academy (KMA) Special Education Needs (SEN) Symposium is back this year for its fourth installation on 16 Nov 2024 at the Royale Chulan Damansara Hotel! This time, it is being held back-to-back with a training and workshop for stakeholders, on 17 November 2024 at Segi College Kota Damansara. The theme in 2024 is Enriching the Lives of The Neurodivergent Community with a focus on meaningful employment for the neurodivergent community.
Join Desiree & Saiqa ~ Supporting U in August discussing caregiver burnout.
The concern of an autistic child getting lost can be amplified due to the unique challenges their children might face. Autistic children may have difficulty understanding danger, communicating their needs, or finding their way back to safety. It's crucial for parents to address this topic with sensitivity and clarity, and to implement practical safety measures to help prevent such situations.
Twice exceptional (often abbreviated as 2e) refers to individuals who possess high abilities or giftedness in one or more areas while simultaneously facing challenges or disabilities in other areas. These individuals exhibit a unique blend of strengths and weaknesses, making their identification and support more complex compared to their peers who are either gifted or have disabilities but not both.
Feilina Feisol, who died on June 30, 2024, was an active disability advocate who was always willing to engage with, support, and work with anyone who would provide opportunities for disabled persons.
Exercise is universally recognized for its physical health benefits, but its importance extends far beyond just the body. For neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other neurological conditions, regular physical activity can be particularly transformative. Exercise plays a crucial role in promoting mental health, improving cognitive function, and fostering social skills, making it a vital component of overall well-being for neurodivergent individuals.
English 
Malay