Inclusive Human Capital—Employment Transition Programme for Adults with Autism at Enabling Academy, Yayasan Gamuda

Abstract

The case focuses on the Enabling Academy (EA) team within Yayasan Gamuda, the philanthropic arm of Malaysia-based Gamuda Berhad. Gamuda is recognized as one of the largest Malaysian infrastructure companies and has been acknowledged for its pioneering efforts in neurodiversity employment for white-collar positions in Malaysia. EA provided employment training, job matching and job coaching for adults with autism, aiming for sustainable employment. While the programme initially saw success, its outreach remained limited. Gamuda had a goal to disseminate its best practices and encourage other entities to integrate more individuals with autism into their workforce. The team needed to devise strategies for senior management. This case addresses significant issues related to responsible organizational practices, untapped human potential, neurodiversity employment frameworks, workplace diversity and inclusion, and sustainable human resource management. It illustrates the decision-making process of the EA team under the guidance of the company’s leadership. The framing of the case reflects EA’s non-profit status and its preference for a collectivist management approach.