9th December 2025, BANDAR UTAMA: With a firm belief that every person has the opportunity to thrive, 1 Utama introduces the Amaze Work Programme – a first-of-its-kind initiative introduced in a Malaysian mall, providing Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) working adults with meaningful employment among its participating tenants.
Under the mall’s broader “As I Am – Celebrating Differences” campaign, the Amaze Work Programme represents a significant step in 1 Utama’s journey to becoming a truly inclusive mall. The programme offers a structured employment pathway tailored to the strengths and abilities of autistic individuals. Partnering with our Inclusive Retail Champions – Aeon, Starbucks and Nando’s – ASD working adults can access meaningful employment opportunities, develop valuable skills, gain experience, and contribute to the workforce.
“1 Utama has always been committed to fostering an inclusive community and aligning our efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Through the Amaze Work Programme, we hope to raise awareness, break misconceptions, and open meaningful career opportunities for autistic adults. We also hope this programme will inspire other malls and private organisations to embrace neurodiverse talent, creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all,” said Ping Teo, Managing Director, 1 Utama Shopping Centre.
Working closely with a designated job coach, the Amaze Work Programme is a 3-month remunerated initiative that supports candidates on the spectrum throughout the hiring and orientation process. The job coach plays a crucial role in assisting both the candidate and the Inclusive Retail Champions by facilitating candidate–job matching, assessing and preparing applicants for their roles, and guiding retail tenants on how to create supportive work environments to ensure a smooth transition into the workplace. Depending on their strengths and interests, candidates may be placed in various roles such as assisting in the kitchen, service line, café, or apparel sections, receiving guided exposure to diverse workplace responsibilities.
To apply for the Amaze Work Programme, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Be a working adult aged 18 years or above.
- Be a registered “As I Am” member with autism.
- Be registered with the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) and hold a valid Orang KurangUpaya (OKU) status card.
The programme is now open for application until 31 December 2025, or until all available vacancies are filled. Candidates can submit their applications via the 1 Utama SuperApp under Amaze tab or www.1Utama.com.my/Amaze.
‘AMAZE WORK PROGRAMME’ HIGHLIGHTS
- Application Period: Open now until 31 December 2025, or until vacancies are filled. Application through 1 Utama SuperApp under Amaze tab or www.1Utama.com.my/Amaze.
- Inclusive Retail Champions: Aeon, Nando’s, Starbucks, and Starbucks Reserve. More mall tenants are set to join.
- Structured 3-month Orientation: Paid orientation with practical work experience, develop skills and build confidence in a supportive and inclusive workspace.
- Career Opportunity: After the 3-month paid orientation, the Inclusive Retail Champions may consider the possibility of offering the applicant a full-time placement in their organization.
‘AMAZE WORK PROGRAMME INCLUSIVE RETAIL CHAMPIONS’
STARBUCKS
“At Starbucks Malaysia, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion by creating meaningful pathways for diverse abilities individuals and communities. By expanding our hiring to include individuals with autism—alongside our Deaf partners (employees) —we continue to empower lives, raise awareness, and strengthen local communities. Our partnership with 1 Utama through the AMAZE Work Programme allows us to turn this commitment into real opportunities for autistic working adults. We believe in creating spaces where everyone feels seen, supported, and valued—and we’re proud to champion a more inclusive future together.”
NANDO’S
“At Nando’s, our purpose is to Change Lives, Together. Through the Amaze Work Programme, we’re opening our doors wider to create opportunities for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), building on our commitment to celebrate differences and create a place where everyone is welcome and feel like they belong.”
AEON
“AEON is continuously enhancing our efforts to better support and include people with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive workplace. We are grateful to be part of the Amaze Work Programme, which enables us to provide meaningful opportunities for persons with disabilities. It also strengthens our social responsibility, attracts diverse talent, and helps us build a workplace that is open, supportive, and forward thinking.”
ABOUT ‘AS I AM – CELEBRATING DIFFERENCES’
In a world that can get loud and overwhelming, we hope to help those with sensory challenges feel better. At 1 Utama, we place the amazing Autism community close to our hearts. In line with our commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, we have created intentional spaces and activities to spread more love and awareness, making 1 Utama an inclusive and accessible mall for all.
SENSORY POD: 1 Utama’s Sensory Pod calm room is thoughtfully designed for As I Am members who may feel overstimulated in the mall and need to decompress in a more controlled environment. Spanning over 800 sq ft, the peaceful retreat is divided into Awan Play Space and Owl Quiet Zone.
PLAYTIME KIDS: Where every child, no matter their differences, can share in the joy of play! This inclusive playground accommodates various physical learning abilities. Explore slides, customized balancing and play structures that foster greater social interaction and kindness between children of all abilities.
SENSORY WALLS: Dedicated spaces around 1 Utama have been transformed into fun, colourful sensory displays with interactive tactiles and textures to assist individuals on the spectrum in managing meltdowns. Explore your senses through touch and feel.
SENSORY KIT: Lovingly curated for little ones to soothe sensory stimuli in a fun and engaging way. The kit includes useful tools that cater to various senses such as fidget toys, ear plugs and a communication card. Redemption is exclusively for As I Am ONECARD Kids+ members aged 12 and below.
CARE TAG: Enjoy calmer, more understanding outings when visiting 1 Utama with your autistic loved ones by wearing the complimentary As I Am Care Tag. Redemption is exclusively for both current and new As I Am ONECARD Kids+ members under 12 years old.
Source: Press Release
