Carnival opens doors for people with autism

ALL parents hope their children will grow up to become independent and lead a quality life. Lee Yen is no different.

Since finding out that her son has mild autism, she and her husband have worked towards building his interests into something that can support him in the future.

Lee, 51, said an early diagnosis made the difference, along with family support.

“Trust yourselves and trust the children to be able to step up.

“They have their unique strengths and we need to help them hone those skills,” she said when met at the Lemme Connect Inclusive Carnival at City Junction Mall in Tanjung Tokong, Penang.

The event aimed to provide resources for families of people with autism.

Lee (centre) watching her son Sean play jenga at the Lemme Connect Inclusive Carnival.

Lee said her 21-year-old son Sean Tan enjoyed drawing.

“He is now taking a course on Adobe software. We are sending him to social classes as well,”

She said events like the carnival helped those with autism to socialise, while showing them the employment opportunities out there.

Ivan Ooi, 25, who has autism, spoke on the challenges he faced in performing tasks.

“While I can do the tasks, my employers do not realise I have a tendency to shut down.

“Please be direct and clear with instructions,” said the substitute teacher.

The carnival was organised by LemmeLearn, an inclusive vocational training programme for young adults with autism and other mild-to-moderate special needs. It was held with the support of Social Security Organisation (Perkeso).

LemmeLearn founder Eileen Soon said this was the first time they were organising the carnival.

“We set up 33 booths offering various products made by special needs organisations, as well as food.

“There are workshops for autistic youths on how to interview for a job.

“We have an activity corner with fun games for all,” she added.

Soon hoped those visiting the one-day carnival would be able to help people learn about supporting inclusion, creating opportunities and celebrating different abilities.

She said that while the push for inclusion had been strong, especially in the last five years, people with autism still faced a challenging road ahead.

“People are more aware of autism. Some companies are still hesitant to hire autistic workers as they fear business will be affected, but autistic people have many skills to offer,” she said.