PETALING JAYA – More than just a walk, it was a powerful stride toward awareness, acceptance, and empowerment. On 26 April, hundreds of participants gathered at Kompleks Sukan PKNS, Petaling Jaya to take part in the annual Taarana’s “Walk For Autism 2025”, a meaningful community event hosted by Taarana School under the RYTHM Foundation, the social impact arm of the QI Group.
Organised in conjunction with World Autism Month, the walk aimed to shine a spotlight on autism awareness, celebrate neurodiversity, and reaffirm the community’s commitment to a more inclusive society — one where individuals on the autism spectrum are not only embraced but empowered.
As the event’s anchor partner, QI Group played a pivotal role in amplifying the message of inclusion and empowerment. Beyond “Walk For Autism 2025”, the Group’s commitment to social equity is anchored in a broader mission to drive transformative change across underserved and neurodiverse communities.
Through its social impact arm, RYTHM Foundation, QI Group champions inclusive education, skill development, grassroots empowerment, and climate-resilient solutions — especially for women, youth, indigenous peoples, and individuals with special needs. “Walk For Autism 2025” is one of many ways the Group turns its purpose into action, reinforcing its belief that sustainable progress must be community-led, culturally respectful, and rooted in dignity for all.
“RYTHM Foundation and Taarana School for Special Needs Children have always been at the forefront of inclusive conversations involving individuals with special needs,” said Group Managing Director Kuna Senathirajah. “QI Group is more than honoured to dedicate our support through both the foundation’s, as well as the school’s social initiatives such as Walk For Autism.”
He further added “We recognise that behind each child with special needs is a family navigating challenges that often go unseen. It is our duty as a collective to provide not only the right tools for the children, but also knowledge, community, and long-term support for their caregivers. In line with our corporate core values – integrity, service, sustainability and leadership, we encourage staff to live them daily.”
Participants of all ages began the morning with an energising warm-up before embarking on a 45-minute walk around the sports complex. What followed was a colourful and heartwarming gathering of families, educators, advocates, and members of the public walking side by side to raise their voices — and visibility — for autism inclusion.
“Now in its third year, Walk for Autism 2025 is our invitation to the community to walk beside us,” said Dr. Sunitha Sivakumaran, Principal of Taarana School. “Walk, in a sense of not just physically, but also in spirit and intention. We want people to truly be aware and understand who our children are and what they need. Each step taken today is a powerful reminder that inclusion is not a destination, but a journey we must walk together with compassion, intention, and consistency,” she further emphasised.
Adding depth to this year’s walk was the participation of En Adli Yahya, founder of the Autism Cafe Project (ACP), who joined the event as a strategic partner. A father to a young adult with autism, En Adli’s inspiring journey — from worried parent to social entrepreneur — resonated with many in attendance.
“I really hope Walk For Autism 2025 helps people to understand that inclusion isn’t a one-day campaign. It’s something we need to live out everywhere — be it in schools, in business, just everywhere,” he shared. “We need to keep creating spaces where everyone, no matter their ability, gets the chance to thrive. That’s how we can create stronger, more compassionate Communities.”
The event featured a range of engaging activities after the walk, including inclusive games, educational booths, therapy resource stations, and vocational training information — all aimed at creating a more informed and supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals.
The first 50 walkers to complete the route were awarded medals to mark their effort and enthusiasm, while all participants received e-certificates as a token of appreciation for their commitment to inclusion.
“As we mark the third year of Walk for Autism, what truly moves us is seeing how this initiative continues to grow—not just in numbers, but in meaning,” said Santhi Periasamy, Head of RYTHM Foundation. “This walk represents more than awareness; it’s a living expression of our ongoing commitment to build a world where every child, regardless of ability, is seen, heard, and given the opportunity to thrive,” she added.
“Walk For Autism 2025” transcended the boundaries of a single event, emerging as a beacon of hope and unwavering commitment. It was a powerful demonstration of community coming together—not solely to raise awareness, but to effect real change through compassion and Understanding.
Inspired by every heartfelt insight and the resolute spirit of all involved, the walk reaffirmed the Group’s pledge to forge a future where inclusivity is a journey lived out every day, and every individual is empowered to thrive.
