By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH: The experience of raising an autistic child became a defining moment in the life of Dr Velerie Wheelervon Primus, who later dedicated herself fully to special education.
The special education teacher from Sekolah Kebangsaan Bingkor, Keningau, Sabah, said her 13-year career in education began as a sports teacher before she moved into arts and culture, and eventually special education.
“I began to seriously explore special education after my child was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
“At that time, I pursued my studies at IPG Kampus Keningau, specialising in special education. From there, I truly immersed myself in this field,” she said.
She added that her experience across sports, arts, and special education eventually led to the development of her Neuro Arts approach, which was introduced earlier this year.
“When my name was announced, I cried.”
That was the emotional reaction of Dr. Velerie after being named the recipient of the Education Minister’s Special Award, the highest education honour, at the national level for 2026.
She said the recognition was deeply meaningful and a reflection of her years of dedication and sacrifice.
“I am very happy and grateful for everything I have gone through. All these sacrifices are finally being recognised, especially by the Ministry of Education and the education community nationwide.
“Thank you, I am truly happy,” she told reporters after receiving the award at the 2026 National Teachers’ Day celebration held at Kinta Riverfront Hotel & Suites today.
She explained that she had developed three key approaches in her teaching practice to support students with special needs.
The first approach, HOPE, involves collaboration between parents and schools to ensure continuous support at home and in school.
The second, Miracles, is a teaching method that integrates occupational therapy into classroom teaching and learning.
The third, Neuro Arts, combines neurology, science and occupational therapy in teaching and learning to strengthen students’ learning outcomes.
She said all three approaches had made a significant impact on student development, particularly those with special needs.
“One of the most meaningful achievements was helping an autistic student who was previously wheelchair-bound, and who is now able to run and play football as of early 2025.
“It was an extraordinary impact resulting from the HOPE, Miracles and Neuro Arts approaches,” she said.
Asked about her ambition to become a teacher, she said the dream had been with her since childhood, growing up in rural Sabah, where access to education was limited.
“I come from rural Keningau, Sabah. That is where the desire was born to help improve the education system, especially for my students,” she said.
She also shared that her mother, who is also a teacher, has been her greatest inspiration throughout her career.
“My mother shaped my character, gave me strength and inspired me to continue serving and nurturing a generation full of empathy and human values,” she said.
Dr Velerie, who has an 11-year-old son, said her child remains her biggest source of strength in her journey as a special education teacher.
“I have one son, and he is my greatest inspiration in this journey,” she said.
She expressed hope that her efforts and approaches would benefit more students in the future.
