Autism Awareness talk: “I am autistic not stupid”

In the conjunction of Autism Awareness Month, Student Welfare of Student LIFE invited Dr Daniel Leong to share about high-functioning autism and recognition of the symptoms to Sunway student and staff.

Dr. Daniel Leong was diagnosed with autism in the year 2011 due to his mother’s suspicion. He was diagnosed with specifically high-functioning autism, also known as Asperger’s Syndrome. Dr. Daniel is currently pursuing a role as an advocate for people with autism, as well as facilitating a peer group of adults with autism called AIM High.

During his talk, Daniel shared about the symptoms of autism, his struggle while seeking further education as an adult with high-functioning autism, and tips in managing student with autism in a classroom setting. Besides that, he encouraged student to use services that are available to work through issues they face. He also shared about professions such as psychiatrist and clinical psychologist who are qualified to provide diagnose of learning disability.

According to the feedback gathered from the participants, they find the talk very insightful and helpful to understand Autism and how to help those who have autism. One of them commented “I really liked the part when Dr. Daniel explained his own personal experience with autism. Also, the process of identifying people who have autism was extremely educational. While the other find Dr. Daniel explained the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-5) and the possible symptoms of High Function Autism very clearly.

With this, we hope more student and staff can participate in learning difficulties initiatives in the very near future. If you suspect that you have the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder or your friend might have one, please contact Student Welfare Unit at 03-74918622 Ext 3047/3022 or email: @email for further support.