In conjunction with World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) this year, Yayasan TM (YTM), the foundation arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) in collaboration with Nak Seni and We&I presented the second edition of Seni Ekspresi Autisma (SESAMA) exhibition at Muzium Telekom taking place from 2nd until 30th of April 2022, showcasing the creative talents in visual arts as well as performing arts of gifted autistic artists. This exhibition is held to help nurture a more autism-friendly world through the arts; demonstrating a genuine expression of love, compassion and empathy for children and individuals on the spectrum, as they face their everyday challenges.

SESAMA was officially launched on 2nd of April, last Saturday by the Honourable Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi, President of OKU Sentral together with Izlyn Ramli, Director of YTM.

Speaking at the launch event, Senator Datuk Ras Adiba said, “These children and individuals on the spectrum need our love and support. We need to have greater understanding and compassion towards them or else, we would have done them a great injustice. It isn't easy to look after persons with disabilities, but it's a beautiful and challenging journey, hence the reason we are here today, showcasing their incredible talents via an art exhibition, to empower them.”

Meanwhile, YTM’s Izlyn said, “No one should ever be left behind, especially in the times we live in, where we’re enabled by so many wonderful life-changing technologies. YTM is delighted to celebrate WAAD and these amazing artistic talents who have come together to showcase their creative artwork.

“Through the exhibition, we hope that audiences will look beyond their preconditions and see them for who they really are – beautiful souls and artists in their own right, deserving equal opportunities, standing shoulder to shoulder with their peers.”

The exhibition launch event included the unveiling of “Rhythm Interactive Special Enabler” (RISE); an instructional book on the practical use of percussion for therapeutic benefits. This book, authored by Dr. Tan Swee Chuan and Edwin Nathaniel, is dedicated towards developing the musical talent of gifted children, providing insights into teaching students with different types and varying levels of learning challenges. The book launch was supported by Musicians for Musicians (MFM).

Apart from the exhibition, YTM is also introducing its “Ramadan Buffet at Muzium Telekom” by Nomad Market, offering many local and international varieties to delight any food lover. The Ramadan Buffet is set to begin daily from 11th of April 2022 every day and on weekends; complete with a Ramadan Nite Bazaar with stalls selling goodies from local artists and entrepreneurs!

YTM and its partners invite all to come and experience the free-admission SESAMA exhibition, from 2nd – 30th April 2022 (12.00PM – 6.00PM, Tuesday to Sunday) showcasing the journey of five gifted artists. Come and join us for Iftar and be inspired by the amazing artwork during this holy month of Ramadan.