UNIQLO, the global apparel brand, is making strides in promoting workplace inclusivity in Malaysia. By partnering with Early Autism Project (EAP) Malaysia, the company is equipping its workforce with the skills needed to better support individuals with disabilities.
EAP Malaysia is an organization that provides customized behavioral treatment programs for people with autism using the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) method. Since December, EAP has been delivering specialized training sessions and resources to UNIQLO Malaysia employees to enhance their ability to engage with both colleagues and customers with disabilities.
Evelyn Tan, UNIQLO’s Director of Legal and Sustainability, shared insights with TRP about the initiative and its positive impact on the disabled community.
Training to Build Inclusivity Among Store Managers
Tan explained that the collaboration with EAP aims to ensure that store managers receive ongoing training to develop skills for engaging with individuals with disabilities.
“Our goal is to create a workplace and shopping experience where everyone feels valued and supported,” Tan said. She added that UNIQLO views this partnership as a step toward setting new standards for accessibility in the retail industry.
UNIQLO Malaysia currently employs 27 individuals with disabilities at 27 locations nationwide and is committed to increasing this number as the company grows.
EAP Training to Empower Staff
According to Tan, the training programs conducted by EAP are designed to enhance awareness and provide practical strategies for interacting with individuals with disabilities.
“These sessions build our employees’ confidence, helping them adapt to diverse situations and deliver personalized services that cater to each customer’s unique needs,” she said.
Jochebed Isaacs, the Director of EAP Malaysia, highlighted that the training emphasizes communication techniques, accessibility, and fostering a supportive workplace culture.
Accessibility in Physical Store Design
Tan pointed to the UNIQLO outlet at Damansara Avenue Square as an example of inclusive store design. The outlet features accessible facilities, including universal fitting rooms, wheelchair-friendly spaces, and reserved parking for individuals with disabilities.
However, Tan emphasized that inclusivity is not just about infrastructure. “It’s also about creating an environment where respect and support are embedded in everything we do,” she said.
Flexible Hiring Practices and Support
UNIQLO Malaysia takes an accommodating approach to hiring people with disabilities. Rather than focusing on the severity of a disability, the company prioritizes hiring individuals capable of performing their roles with reasonable adjustments.
Tasks are tailored to individual strengths, and employees with disabilities enjoy the same benefits and opportunities for career growth as others. Additionally, job coaches have been introduced to provide one-on-one guidance, ensuring employees with disabilities have the tools to succeed.
Collaboration to Expand Opportunities
Recognizing the challenges faced by individuals with autism in the job market, UNIQLO Malaysia has also teamed up with the Enabling Academy (EA), a Gamuda Berhad initiative that helps individuals on the autism spectrum transition into employment.
As part of this partnership, UNIQLO offers a Retail Training Course that combines classroom learning with hands-on experience in a retail environment. This program, which includes mentorship from employees with disabilities, equips trainees with valuable skills and real-world insights.
Several graduates of the EA program have already joined UNIQLO, and the company plans to continue offering such opportunities. Tan expressed interest in collaborating with other organizations that share the same vision of creating meaningful career pathways for individuals with disabilities.
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