KUALA LUMPUR — In a powerful move to promote community empowerment and inclusive entrepreneurship, SME Bank has joined hands with The Autism Cafe Project (ACP)—a Malaysian social enterprise supported by the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM)—to launch a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative in conjunction with World Autism Month 2025.
This collaboration underscores SME Bank’s commitment to building a diverse and inclusive SME ecosystem that provides equitable opportunities for entrepreneurs on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It aligns with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development’s (MEDC) special focus on underserved groups under its Kumpulan Fokus Khas initiative.
Empowering Through Entrepreneurship
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting Group President and CEO of SME Bank, shared the Bank’s vision:
“We are proud to play a direct role in shaping a more equitable economy through our partnership with ACP, supported by NASOM. This initiative reflects our mission to empower entrepreneurs of all backgrounds—especially those from underrepresented communities—by equipping them with the tools, guidance, and opportunities to achieve financial independence.”
He added that this initiative is an extension of SME Bank’s broader sustainability journey, which focuses on uplifting unserved and underserved communities across Malaysia.
Awareness and Action at Menara SME Bank
As part of the initiative, a two-day awareness and outreach programme was held at Menara SME Bank:
- Awareness Sharing Session: Featuring speakers from ACP and NASOM, SME Bank employees engaged in a session focused on deepening their understanding of autism and learning about the challenges and strengths of individuals across all age groups living with ASD.
- One-Day Bazaar: The lobby of Menara SME Bank transformed into a vibrant bazaar, showcasing the talents of autistic entrepreneurs offering food, beverages, handicrafts, artwork, and fashion items. The event not only highlighted their creativity and potential but also served as a platform to support their business aspirations.
Driving Real Change Through Inclusion
Mohd Adli Yahya, Founder of ACP, praised SME Bank’s proactive role in fostering inclusion:
“Empowering autistic individuals through entrepreneurship goes beyond income generation—it fosters dignity, inclusion, and meaningful participation in society. Together with SME Bank, we’re working to break down social barriers, normalize integration, and create stronger, more compassionate communities.”
A Growing Need for Inclusive Pathways
According to SME Corp Malaysia, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) make up 96.9% of all registered businesses in Malaysia and employ nearly half the national workforce. At the same time, data from the Galen Centre for Health & Social Policy highlights a staggering 663% increase in autism diagnoses over the past decade—from 6,991 in 2013 to 53,323 in 2023.
This sharp rise highlights the urgency of inclusive initiatives that provide skill-building, employment, and entrepreneurial opportunities for autistic individuals to thrive independently.
About SME Bank
SME Bank continues to drive change across Malaysia through impactful CSR programmes—from supporting underserved entrepreneurs to investing in education, inclusion, and sustainability.
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