Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei hosted a celebration yesterday to mark its 22nd anniversary since its establishment in 2001, receiving the 2nd ASEAN Outstanding Social Welfare and Development Award (AOSWADA) and the Teacher’s Day. Permanent Secretary (Community) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Hajah Nor Ashikin binti Haji Johari attended as the guest of honour.
The event began with welcoming remarks from SMARTER Brunei President Pengiran Zamri bin Pengiran Haji Bujang, followed by a speech from volunteer teacher Datin Rani Alexander, who also received a plaque of appreciation for her eight years of dedication and support for SMARTER Brunei.
Attendees were treated to a video presentation titled ‘SMARTER Brunei’s Journey: Through the Years.’
Guests also enjoyed various stage performances, including a song interpretation of Thanks To You by the teachers, a dance performance by SMARTER’s adults with autism and a solo song performance by CentrE for the Development of Gifted and Talented Education’s Rafiq Irfan Affendy.
The event concluded with an awareness presentation, titled ‘Please Don’t Shut Me Out’, featuring individuals with autism, their teachers, and co-therapists.
The association also announced its plans at the event to enhance services and collaborate more extensively with relevant stakeholders to support individuals with autism in Brunei Darussalam as well as across the globe. – Lyna Mohamad
