A sporting platform for autistic kids
THE inaugural Autismlympic Bank Rakyat 2017 was a very meaningful event in raising awareness on autism, bringing together children with autism to participate in sporting activities that tested their sensory abilities and physical endurance.
Rio Paralympics gold medallist and world record holder Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli said it was also a platform for autistic children to show off their untapped talent and extraordinary abilities to the world, based on their respective strengths and interests, despite having the condition.
Ziyad, who has mild autism and learning disabilities, was the guest at the inaugural Autismlympic Bank Rakyat 2017 held at Kompleks Sukan Negara Panasonic Shah Alam on Wednesday.
He said he connected with the 480 autistic children aged between 5 and 12 whotookpart insportingactivitiessuch as Big Fish Story, Target Shoot, Run and Pick, as well as Building The Tower.
“I saw myself in them because they pushed themselves to the very end.. I was awed and touched by the determination of the autistic children who never gave up in completing the tasks. Their spirits were high and despite facing some obstacles, quitting was never an option.
“I have mild autism and learning disabilities myself, but that didnt stop me from pursuing my dreams to be a world-class athlete. I can also see that they, too, have the potential in sports and have the opportunity to go far and be an athlete like me one day.
“Autismlympic Bank Rakyat 2017 is a positive event and sports is a good platform for autistic children. It is a perfect avenue to discover their talents, especially in sports, and it encour- ages them to be more active to stimulate their movements and emotions.
“I hope Bank Rakyat will continue with this noble effort,” said the 27-yearold.
Ziyad said parents should push for the involvement of their autistic children or those with other disabilities, in sports, and to never see them as a burden.
He said he understands the struggles and feelings of an autistic child as they, too, want to discover their capabilities and be more active, mentally and physically.
“We may not be good in academics, so sports is a way for us to release our energy and discover our passion. During my school days, I got involved in all sorts of sports, including long-distance running and sprinting. This was because I realised I was weak academically and wanted to capitalise on my other strengths.
“I never saw sports as a career back then, especially for a disabled person. With the unwavering support from my parents, siblings, family and friends throughout the years, I soared higher and reached to where I am today.
“An autistic child should be encouraged to pursue their passion, and with the support from their loved ones, nothing is impossible. It also helps overcome fear, anxiety and helps them to come out of their shell,” said Ziyad.
Sharifah Mazlan has a 16-year-old autistic and dyslexic daughter whose deep interest lies in sports, especially taekwando.
She was supportive of her daughter Maisarah Fatehah Ridzuan’s intention to take up taekwando several years ago.
“It helped her to stay focused, build physical strength and improve gross and fine motor skills. Autistic children are restless, and sports actually helps them release their energy and helps them to relax.
“I am all for Maisarah to learn taekwando. She is passionate and she is now a green belt holder. Her instructor said she has the potential to go further and I have pledged my support for her if she wants to pursue it,” said 47-year-old.
Sharifah, who owns and teaches at the Bandar Baru Ampang-based My Kids Care Centre, said Autismlympic Bank Rakyat 2017 was a perfect avenue for various autism associations, centres and schools to network.
“This is, so far, the largest gathering for the autism community where we get the opportunity to exchange knowledge. It should be done more often so that we can learn from each other for the sake of our children,” she added.