SEEME in Australia Phase 2: Empowering Special Needs Education Across Malaysia
- Petri Karjalainen
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
In classrooms across Malaysia, teachers face a growing challenge: the rising number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With over 100,000 cases reported in 2024, the need for effective strategies in special needs education has never been more urgent. Recognizing this, Rotary stepped in with a cross-border initiative to bridge knowledge gaps and bring world-class expertise to Malaysia.
From Australia to Malaysia – A Knowledge Exchange
In January 2025, Rotary Clubs from District 3300 (Malaysia) and District 9800 (Australia) joined forces to bring two experienced Australian special needs teachers to Malaysia. Over a span of five months, they shared cutting-edge techniques, tools, and hands-on experiences with local educators and parents.
The initiative was part of Phase 2 of the SEEME project, following the successful Phase 1, where eight Malaysian teachers were sent to Australia for six weeks of on-the-job training. This time, the knowledge came home — directly benefiting communities across Malaysia.
Reaching Teachers, Parents, and Policymakers
The visiting educators played a central role in an international symposium co-organized with SEAMEO SEN (Regional Centre for Special Education Needs), the Selangor State Education Department, and Malaysia’s Ministry of Education. The symposium gathered 300 special education teachers from schools and NGOs, sparking meaningful dialogue and showcasing Rotary’s commitment to national education.
Beyond the symposium, the project reached deeper into communities through three Rotary-organized seminars in Kuala Lumpur, Kuantan, and Penang, benefiting 220 parents and teachers. The visiting teachers also visited schools, bringing personalized guidance and support.
In total, 520 teachers and parents were trained, creating ripples of change that will continue long after the project’s completion.
Lasting Impact and Recognition
The success of the initiative went beyond numbers. It:
Strengthened Rotary’s partnership with Malaysia’s Ministry of Education, which has urged for the program to continue annually.
Built lasting networks between Malaysian and Australian educators for ongoing collaboration.
Empowered parents to better understand and support their children’s unique needs.
Raised national awareness through extensive publicity on the Ministry’s portal, flyers, and social media outreach.
Building for the Future
Sustainability is at the heart of the SEEME project. The knowledge gained will not only be applied in classrooms today but will also evolve through ongoing communication between Australian and Malaysian educators. Plans are already in place to replicate the initiative annually, extending its reach to more states across Malaysia and ensuring a nationwide impact.
Powered by Rotary Collaboration
This remarkable project was powered by the collaboration of 18 Rotary Clubs across Malaysia and Australia, with a total funding of USD 7,591 and 70 dedicated volunteers contributing 1,329 volunteer hours. It is a shining example of Rotary’s ability to unite communities across borders for a greater purpose.
✨ The SEEME in Australia Phase 2 project is more than training — it’s about empowering teachers, uplifting parents, and giving every child with special needs a better chance at education and life.
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