Sejahtera Milik Kita

CREATING CONNECTIONS: HARNESSING THE POTENTIAL OF HIGH-FUNCTIONING AUTISM CIVIL SERVANTS THROUGH UNDERSTANDING THEIR UNIQUENESS Woo Chiat Sing THE INSPIRATION This idea for writing was inspired by encounters with numerous unique public servants exhibiting features of High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (HFASD). This group of individuals shares common yet personal characteristics, which often confound their superiors and colleagues regarding their actual challenges. They are frequently described as smart, knowledgeable, outspoken, and obedient, but encounter difficulties when it comes to leading a team, providing directions and plans, working collaboratively, or resolving crises. Working closely with them during therapy often reveals that their issues extend beyond the workplace, affecting family management as well. However, these problems often go unnoticed due to their composed appearance, convincing others that they are doing well. Yet, beneath this veneer lies a notable complexity of emotional turbulence, unbeknownst to the individuals themselves. This article is sharing the unmindful characteristic among HFASD public servants to create awareness and connection among colleagues in creating the air of compassion in the working environment by fostering a sense of understanding and support. This concept goes hand-in-hand with the core values of Respect ( Hormat ) and Care & Compassion ( Ihsan ) in Malaysia MADANI introduced by the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Jan 19, 2023 to uphold human right and potential and building a caring nation.