TİKA Supports Autistic Children in Malaysia

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) modernized sensory and stress rooms, renovated entertainment areas, and established a computer classroom at Taman Sinar Harapan Ziyad Zolkefli Cheras Nursing Home for autistic children in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Operating under the Ministry of Women, Family, and Community Development, the center provides specialized care for autistic children. As part of its support, TİKA renovated the facility’s sensory and stress rooms to enhance therapy sessions and learning experiences. Additionally, a new computer classroom has been set up to help children develop their digital skills.

The project was inaugurated with the participation of Emir Salim Yüksel, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur; Dr. Ümit Naci Yorulmaz, Vice President of TİKA; and officials from Malaysia’s Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, TİKA’s Vice President Yorulmaz emphasized that TİKA prioritizes projects for disadvantaged groups in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and stated: “We are honored to stand in solidarity today with our brothers and sisters under the protection of the Malaysian state. In 2023, we took the first step by establishing a computer laboratory here. In 2024, we modernized the center’s sensory and stress rooms to create better-equipped spaces. We believe that empowering the most vulnerable members of society is key to building a stronger future.”

About Taman Sinar Harapan Ziyad Zolkefli Cheras Nursing Home

The center in Kuala Lumpur provides care, protection, rehabilitation, and education to approximately 100 autistic children with learning disabilities. Across the country, more than 1,000 Malay, Chinese, and Indian individuals benefit from similar support at seven different centers. Those without family support receive lifelong care and protection while being taught essential daily living skills.