Latest news with #MohdAdli
The Sun
4 days ago
- The Sun
Unexploded WWII bomb safely disposed in Kuantan housing site
KUANTAN: A 250-kilogramme unexploded aerial bomb, believed to be from World War Two, was discovered at a housing construction site in Bukit Goh. The explosive was found by a contractor at approximately 2.50 pm, prompting immediate police intervention. Kuantan district acting police chief Supt Mohd Adli Mat Daud confirmed that security measures were swiftly implemented. The Bomb Disposal Unit from both the Kuantan district and Pahang state police headquarters conducted a risk assessment before proceeding with disposal. Authorities opted for the 'low order' method to minimise tremors, considering nearby residences located roughly 200 metres away. The operation concluded safely by 10 am the following day. Mohd Adli urged the public to avoid handling suspicious objects and instead report them to the nearest police station for proper disposal.
Borneo Post
27-04-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
SME Bank sets out to empower autistic entrepreneurs
Mohammad Hardee (right) visits one of the booths showcasing the talents and creations of autism-spectrum individuals. Standing, at left, is Mohd Adli. KUALA LUMPUR (April 27): Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (SME Bank) has partnered with the Autism Café Project, a homegrown social enterprise supported by the National Autism Society of Malaysia (Nasom), in a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative meant to champion inclusive entrepreneurship and promote community-based empowerment for individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This meaningful collaboration also coincided with the celebration of World Autism Month 2025. Acting group president and chief executive officer of SME Bank, Datuk Dr Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, emphasised the bank's commitment to building a more diverse SME ecosystem – aligning with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development (MEDC) agenda, which also placed emphasis on this segment under its 'Special Focus Group'. 'We are proud to play a direct role in shaping a more equitable economy through our partnership with the Autism Café Project and supported by Nasom – reflecting our dedication to empowering entrepreneurs, including individuals with autism. 'It aligns closely with SME Bank's sustainability journey and our vision to create meaningful value within the SME ecosystem –not only through financial services, but also by uplifting unserved and underserved communities, ensuring equal opportunities for all. 'By offering tools, guidance, and encouragement, we hope to be able to help them achieve financial independence, whilst making a difference in their lives,' said Mohammad Hardee. A recent two-day event commenced with an awareness sharing-session for SME Bank employees, featuring speakers from the Autism Café Project and Nasom. The session was designed to deepen employees' understanding of autistic individuals across all age groups: children, youths and adults. This was followed by a one-day bazaar at Menara SME Bank, which highlighted the talents of autistics entrepreneurs through a variety of offerings, including food and beverages, handicrafts, artwork, and clothing. The event also served as a platform to support these entrepreneurs in pursuing their business goals, supported by employees of SME Bank, in line with ongoing efforts to promote greater economic empowerment and financial independence. Mohd Adli Yahya, founder of the Autism Café Project, lauded SME Bank for its proactive role in raising awareness about individuals living with autism and promoting an inclusive society. 'Empowering autistic individuals through entrepreneurship goes beyond income generation – it fosters dignity, inclusion, and meaningful participation in society. 'Together with SME Bank, we are helping to break down social barriers, normalise the integration of more autistic individuals in the society, and build stronger, more compassionate communities. 'This partnership not only supports individuals with autism but also drives broader societal change by promoting a more inclusive and resilient economic landscape.' In Malaysia, micro-SMEs (MSMEs) constitute 96.9 per cent of all registered businesses, and employ nearly half of the national workforce based on data from SME Corp Malaysia. Concurrently, statistics from the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy reveal a significant rise of over 663 per cent in autism diagnoses between 2013 and 2023, with registered cases increasing from 6,991 to 53,323. This sharp increase underscores the urgent need for inclusive initiatives that equip individuals on the autism spectrum with the skills, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurial pathways necessary for greater independence. From empowering underserved entrepreneurs to supporting local education and sustainability efforts, SME Bank is making an impact in communities nationwide. Stay updated with the latest initiatives, success stories, and community outreach programmes on SME Bank's Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok platforms. Founded in 2016, the Autism Café Project in Kota Damansara supports 114 individuals with autism, providing vocational training and work experience to help them become self-reliant and entrepreneurial. Nasom is a non-profit that offers education, care, and support for individuals with autism and their families. With over 15 centres across Malaysia, the organisation provides services like early intervention, therapy, vocational training, and family support, while advocating for autism awareness and acceptance. autism corporate social responsibility entrepreneurs lead SME Bank
The Star
22-04-2025
- General
- The Star
Malaysian dad goes all out to help young adults with autism gain jobs
Muhammad Adeeb Nu'aim Ibrahim, 16, has medium-functioning autism, but he has big dreams. He loves baking and cooking, and hopes to become a chef after finishing high school. Last month, he moved a step closer to that dream when he was accepted as a trainee at Fuiyoh! It's Uncle Roger, a restaurant in Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor. It may seem like a small milestone to some, but it means a lot to Muhammad Adeeb. 'I am happy. I can meet new people,' he says during an interview. Nurain (left) says the job training has helped Muhammad Adeeb grow more confident. This opportunity is part of his career transition training programme, designed for students with special needs at a school in Shah Alam. Autism – also referred to as autism spectrum disorder – constitutes a diverse group of conditions related to the development of the brain, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). Like many people with autism, Muhammad Adeeb has difficulty with social communication, and struggles to make eye contact with others. According to WHO, these individuals are often subject to stigma and discrimination, including unjust deprivation of health care, education and opportunities to engage and participate in their communities. But thanks to the efforts of Mohd Adli Yahya, 61, founder of the Shah Alam-based Autism Cafe Project (ACP), Muhammad Adeeb and two other young adults with autism have secured jobs at the restaurant, a crucial step towards independence and community integration. Inspired by his own son, Muhammad Luqman Shariff, 26, who has low-functioning autism, Mohd Adli has dedicated himself to helping autistic young adults transition into the working world. Mohd Adli wants people with autism to move towards independence and to grow in confidence. Photo: The Star/Raja Faisal Hishan At ACP, Mohd Adli empowers youth with autism by offering job opportunities and a safe space to work. So far, six young adults are under his wing. He has trained them to cook, serve customers and bake cookies. Mohd Adli has also helped secure part-time waiter positions for three ACP staff members at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur. 'As parents, we won't be around forever (for our children), so my goal is to equip Muhammad Luqman with the skills he needs to stand on his own. There was a time when he couldn't even manage simple tasks, but now, with training, he can measure ingredients, serve customers, and handle basic kitchen duties,' he says. 'I want my son – and the others under ACP – to move towards independence, to grow in confidence, and to walk alongside society, not behind it.' In 2016, Mohd Adli gave up his job as an executive director at Standard Chartered Foundation to set up ACP. His wife, Nozilan Mohamad, also gave up her job as a technician at a telecommunications company to manage the restaurant and train its staff. A chance to shine Popular Malaysian comedian Nigel Ng, who is based in the United States, is known worldwide for his 'Uncle Roger' persona. The character is known for his exaggerated Asian accent, orange polo shirt, and strong opinion on how Asian food should be cooked. Last year, he ventured into the restaurant business, opening Fuiyoh! Its Uncle Roger in Malaysia. In a press release, Ng said the idea to work with autistic individuals came about when the restaurant was exploring options for its corporate social responsibility projects. 'Having many fans from the Down syndrome and autism communities, we saw the collaboration with ACP as a natural fit. Now, ACP cookies and handmade bracelets are also being sold at the cafe, providing an additional avenue for income and visibility. 'We're honoured to be working alongside ACP to provide job opportunities for the autistic community and help them feel seen and supported.' Ng (left) believes in creating meaningful job opportunities for individuals like Muhammad Luqman. Photo: Belle Lee Ng, 34, added that offering these young adults the chance to work is about more than just employment – it is about raising awareness and breaking the stigma. 'There is a common misconception that individuals with autism can't work. This partnership proves otherwise. While it can be challenging for them to find jobs in typical settings, the restaurant offers a safe, encouraging space for them to grow and shine.' As part of this initiative, Muhammad Adeeb and two boys work at the restaurant once a week for five hours. During their shifts, they help with tasks such as serving customers, managing simple app functions, clearing dishes, wiping tables, and bringing orders to customers. Their schedule starts with just five hours a day, gradually helping them adapt before they return to ACP for the remainder of the day over a four-day work week. Each trainee is paid RM10 per hour and paired with a buddy – a staff member who guides and supports them throughout their shift. 'Our collaboration with the restaurant focuses on constructing a safe working environment for them. So far, the three workers are doing well,' says Mohd Adli. Muhammad Adeeb's mother, lecturer Nurain Nasrudin, 45, is optimistic that over time, her eldest son will continue to gain confidence and become more comfortable interacting with others. 'My son is a big fan of Uncle Roger. And he is excited to have his first real job training. Having previously trained at ACP, this is his first time engaging more directly with the public. After each shift, he is so happy to share how he's learning new things. 'His job training is helping him build confidence. He is slowly learning how to mix with others, and slowly, he can gain independence.' Nurain is also happy that he is finally learning a skill set. 'A restaurant giving him the chance to learn, grow and earn is a step closer to independence. This means a lot,' says the mother of four.
