UNIQLO, the renowned global clothing retailer, is taking meaningful steps to enhance workplace inclusivity in Malaysia. Through a partnership with Early Autism Project (EAP) Malaysia, the company is working to equip its employees with the knowledge and tools needed to better engage with individuals with disabilities.
EAP Malaysia specializes in tailored behavioral therapy programs for individuals with autism, using the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) approach. Since December, EAP has been conducting training sessions for UNIQLO staff, helping them to interact more effectively and empathetically with both colleagues and customers with disabilities.
Evelyn Tan, UNIQLO’s Director of Legal and Sustainability, provided insights into the initiative and its expected impact on the disabled community during an interview with TRP.
Training Store Managers for Inclusivity
According to Tan, the collaboration with EAP is primarily focused on training store managers to ensure they are well-equipped to engage with people with disabilities.
“We’re investing in our employees to cultivate an inclusive environment that benefits both our team and our customers,” she said. Tan added that the partnership reflects UNIQLO’s goal to lead the way in accessibility within the retail sector.
Currently, UNIQLO Malaysia employs 27 people with disabilities across its 27 outlets nationwide, with plans to increase this number as the company continues to expand.
Empowering Employees Through EAP Training
The training provided by EAP is designed to help UNIQLO employees build confidence and develop practical strategies for supporting individuals with disabilities.
“These sessions help our team adapt to various scenarios and deliver services tailored to each customer’s unique needs,” Tan explained.
Jochebed Isaacs, Director of EAP Malaysia, added that the training emphasizes key areas such as effective communication, understanding accessibility needs, and fostering a supportive workplace culture.
Improving Physical Accessibility in Stores
Tan highlighted the UNIQLO Damansara Avenue Square outlet as an example of the company’s efforts to improve store accessibility. The outlet is equipped with features like universal fitting rooms, wheelchair-accessible spaces, and designated parking spots for individuals with disabilities.
However, Tan stressed that inclusivity extends beyond physical modifications. “It’s about creating a workplace culture that prioritizes respect and support for everyone,” she said.
Inclusive Hiring Practices
When it comes to hiring, UNIQLO Malaysia takes a flexible approach. The company does not set strict limitations based on the severity of a person’s disability but instead focuses on identifying roles where individuals can perform independently with reasonable accommodations.
Tan noted that all employees, including those with disabilities, receive equal pay, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. Personalized support and job coaching are also provided to help employees succeed.
Expanding Opportunities Through Partnerships
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism, UNIQLO Malaysia has also partnered with Enabling Academy (EA), a Gamuda Berhad initiative aimed at helping adults on the autism spectrum transition into employment.
Through this partnership, UNIQLO offers a Retail Training Course, which blends classroom lessons with hands-on store training. The course is led by employees with disabilities, who provide relatable insights and practical advice to trainees.
Several graduates of the program have successfully joined UNIQLO’s workforce, and the company remains committed to continuing these efforts. Tan also expressed interest in collaborating with other organizations to create more opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
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