9 December 2024, Kuala Lumpur — Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has entered into a one-year partnership with the Early Autism Project (EAP) to advance workplace inclusivity and empower its workforce to better support people with disabilities in Malaysia. Beginning this December, EAP will provide specialised training and resources to equip UNIQLO Malaysia employees with the skills needed to engage effectively with employees, customers, and individuals with disabilities, reinforcing UNIQLO’s commitment to fostering inclusive spaces.
As part of this partnership, UNIQLO is expanding its commitment to inclusivity by engaging EAP to provide specialised training for store managers, not just those working with autistic colleagues, but also with individuals across the spectrum of disabilities. This ensures that the company’s workforce is prepared to work with individuals across the full spectrum of disabilities.
Currently, UNIQLO Malaysia employs 27 individuals with disabilities across 27 locations, with plans to continue expanding this initiative. This partnership with EAP further enhances the company’s efforts by improving store accessibility and ensuring that practices are tailored to meet diverse needs, all while incorporating valuable feedback from employees and customers alike.
In addition to the partnership with EAP, UNIQLO is committed to maintaining and enhancing accessibility at its UNIQLO Damansara Avenue store. The store features universal fitting rooms, wheelchair-accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities. These facilities reflect UNIQLO’s ongoing commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all customers.
“UNIQLO believes that inclusivity is essential to building a better workplace and community, and we are committed to empowering our teams with the skills and resources to create supportive environments,” said Evelyn Tan, Director of Legal and Sustainability, UNIQLO Malaysia. “This partnership with the Early Autism Project reflects our dedication to making every UNIQLO store a space where both employees and customers feel welcome and valued,” she added.
Jochebed Isaacs, Director at the Early Autism Project, said: “It is inspiring to see a global brand like UNIQLO take active steps toward creating an inclusive workplace. Our mission has always been to empower individuals with autism and other disabilities, and we are proud to collaborate with UNIQLO in advancing this vision. By providing training and resources, we aim to help UNIQLO lead the way in setting a new standard for inclusivity in the retail industry.”
UNIQLO’s collaboration with EAP builds on its long-standing commitment to inclusivity, which has been central to its operations for over two decades. This initiative aligns with the brand’s LifeWear philosophy of creating quality clothing for everyone while fostering a culture that respects and values diversity.
In conjunction with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, UNIQLO reaffirms its commitment to fostering inclusivity by raising awareness about the critical role of accessible and supportive workplaces. Through initiatives like its partnership with EAP, UNIQLO seeks to set a benchmark in the retail industry, creating store environments that champion diversity, empower individuals with disabilities, and serve as exemplary models of accessibility and inclusion.
For more information about UNIQLO and its sustainability initiatives, please visit www.uniqlo.com/my.
