Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) organised a short course titled Understanding and Supporting Children with Autism on 7 February 2026 at Classroom 4, UNIMAS City Campus, Kuching. The programme reflects the University’s ongoing efforts to connect academic knowledge with community engagement and professional practice.
The short course was conducted in collaboration with the Child and Adolescent Learning and Well-Being Centre (CALW), UNIMAS, and the Early Autism Project Malaysia (EAP). Coordination support was provided by Ross Azura Zahit and Associate Professor Dr Chai Soo Sie.
A total of 30 participants attended the session, comprising academicians, students, parents, and members of the community. The workshop was facilitated by Rachel Gomez, Principal at EAP and a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA). She introduced participants to foundational knowledge on autism and shared evidence-based approaches, including Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), as well as practical Positive Behaviour Support techniques applicable at home, in classrooms, and in community settings.
Feedback from participants was highly positive. All attendees agreed that the workshop should be offered again, citing the relevance and practicality of the content. Suggestions for future sessions included incorporating more hands-on activities, extending the duration of the workshop, and inviting government school teachers to participate.
The programme demonstrates the value of collaboration between higher education institutions and professional organisations in addressing community needs. It also reflects the increasing demand for accessible and practical knowledge related to autism among educators, families, and the wider community in Sarawak.
Through CALW and its partners, UNIMAS plans to continue expanding similar initiatives to support inclusive education, child development, and community well-being in the region.
Contributed by Ross Azura Zahit/ Lecturer, Psychology Programme