With a firm belief that every person has the opportunity to thrive, 1 Utama introduces the Amaze Work Programme. The first initiative was 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 their Inclusive Retail Champions:
- Aeon
- Starbucks
- 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 for 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:
- Kitchen
- Service line
- Café
- Apparel sections
Receiving guided exposure to diverse workplace responsibilities.
Application Requirements
To apply for the Amaze Work Programme, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Candidates must be working adults aged 18 years or above.
- Candidates must register as “As I Am” members with autism.
- Candidates must register with the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) and hold a valid Orang Kurang Upaya (OKU) status card.
The programme is now open for application until 31 December 2025, or until the team fills all available vacancies.
Candidates can submit their applications via the 1 Utama SuperApp under the Amaze tab or www.1Utama.com.my/Amaze.
1 Utama Offers A Brighter Future for the Autistic Community
In a world that can get loud and overwhelming, 1 Utama hopes to help those with sensory challenges feel better. At 1 Utama, the amazing Autism community is always close to their hearts.
In line with the commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the mall has created intentional spaces and activities to spread more love and awareness. You may find:
- Sensory Pod – calm room for As I Am members who may feel overstimulated in the mall
- Playtime Kids – perfect place to share the joy of play
- Sensory Walls – a fun and colourful space completed with interactive tactile and textures
- Sensory Kit – lovingly curated for little ones to soothe sensory stimuli in a fun and engaging way
- Care Tag – the complimentary As I Am Care Tag to promote better understanding
This makes 1 Utama an inclusive and accessible mall for all.