Building Care organised Autism Family Day, an event that united over 100 participants, including children with autism, their families, caregivers, and supporters, on 5 October at Tanjung Aru Beach, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The gathering was filled with joy, warmth, and mutual encouragement, serving as an inspiring reminder that love and community can transform challenges into moments of triumph.
The main objectives of the event were to strengthen relationships among families and caregivers, provide encouragement and therapeutic support, and raise awareness about autism. Though the day brought some unexpected rain that shortened the program, the sense of unity and enthusiasm remained intact. Attendees participated in two main activities, aerobic exercise and a delightful bottle-fishing game. The energy and laughter of the children filled the air, and the sight of parents cheering created a truly moving atmosphere.
The day concluded with a joyful meal shared together, followed by a prize-giving ceremony that celebrated the efforts of every participant. The closing remarks by Dr. Jane Yap, MAUM Director for Health and Adventist Possibility Ministries, captured the essence of the event—gratitude, encouragement, and hope. Her words resonated deeply with the caregivers, many of whom expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to connect and feel supported in their journey.
Beyond the event itself, parents expressed their appreciation to the organisers for a thoughtful and well-organised event that brought them together. Furthermore, the families are now able to connect with each other, sharing advice, experiences, and words of encouragement through their active WhatsApp support group. This online community has become a lifeline, offering emotional support, friendship, and the reassurance that they are not alone.
In many ways, the mission of Building Care aligns beautifully with the Adventist Autism Advocacy initiative. Both share the same compassionate goal: to build inclusive and supportive environments where individuals with autism and their families can thrive. The Adventist Autism Advocacy, rooted in the values of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, promotes understanding, respect, and the belief that every person, regardless of ability, is fearfully and wonderfully made in God’s image (Psalm 139:14).
By emphasizing empathy and holistic support, initiatives like these remind us that caring for families with special needs is not merely a duty; it is a ministry of love. The simple acts of listening, sharing, and standing together help lighten the burden many caregivers silently carry. Program coordinator and president, Mrs. Susana Johnny, shared, “This is the environment we want to create within our communities.
As Building CARE (Children, Autism, Resilience, Empowered) and Adventist Autism Advocacy continue their efforts, the message is clear: awareness leads to acceptance, and acceptance fosters a sense of belonging. Autism Family Day was more than an event; it was a beacon of hope, a celebration of resilience, and a testament that when communities come together in understanding and compassion, every heart shines a little brighter.
Reported by Hazel Wanda Ginajil-Gara, MAUM Communication Department
16, October 2025, Thursday.