The Malaysian Insight

IN conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day, held on April 2 every year, The Malaysian Insight visited a cafe in Puchong run by autistic individuals.

The Autism Cafe Project, an initiative by Mohd Adli Yahya, 55, opened its doors in August 2016.

Adli started the cafe to support his autistic son, Muhamad Luqman, 19, who is also a staff member.

After watching Luqman’s struggles growing up, Adli quit his job as Standard Charted Foundation executive director to set up the cafe, which trains special needs youth to be independent.

The father of six said he was worried about Luqman’s future, and believes that through the cafe, other children like his son will have the opportunity to learn life skills and make a living.

“I might have another 10 to 15 years left to live, but my son has a long way to go. Who is going to look after him then? It is tough for them (special needs youth) to land a job. I hope this project will help him when my wife and I are no longer around,” said Adli.

He said it is key for parents of special needs children to have patience and give good guidance.

With such dedication, he said, every autistic child has a shot at a bright future.

As the quote goes, “Autism doesn’t come with a manual, it comes with a parent that never gives up”.

The Autism Cafe Project operates thrice a week, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, starting at 9am.

It features an array of local dishes and cakes, as well as does catering and sells merchandise. – April 2, 2019.