From Purpose to Plate: ARISMA’s Mission Shines at Gombak Food Festival 2.0

By, Nur Ayra Zaqirah binti Noor Azmi and Amal Insyirah binti Mohd Rafee

On the first day, of the Gombak Food Festival 2.0, it offered more than just food—it presented a mission that nourishes.  

What if your favourite snack could also help change a life? 

At this year’s Gombak Food Festival 2.0, one booth offered more than delicious treats. Nestled among colourful food vendors at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), ARISMA (Akademi Remaja Islam Autisma) attracted festival visitors with its purpose-driven approach—where every purchase supported the development of youths with autism through education rooted in Islamic values. 

ARISMA isn’t just a brand. It’s a mission in action. 

Founded by Puan Siti Khadijah Md. Zamin, ARISMA is an academy that empowers youths with autism by  nurturing their personal, social, and spiritual growth in an Islamic environment. On 3 to 4 June, their presence at the festival proved how impactful community-driven businesses can be. 

Their product range included kerepek bawang, kerepek pisang, kacang medan, tart nenas, chocochip cookies, and pineapple juice—all sealed in air-tight packaging, offering freshness and a longer shelf life. These were not just snacks—they were thoughtful, accessible, and  practical for students and busy visitors.

While most booths focused on hot meals meant to be consumed immediately, ARISMA’s offerings stood out for their lasting value. 

The festival launched with speeches and booth visits by VIPs, including the Dean of AHAS KIRKHS, Prof. Dr. Shukran Abdul Rahman and En. Zul Adha Bin Amiruddin, who represented Tok Din (Ketua Kampung Kerdas). At ARISMA’s booth, Puan Siti passionately introduced the academy’s mission to Prof. Dr. Shukran and En. Zul Adha.

“We empower autistic youths to grow with confidence and dignity. Our programmes focus on Islamic values and personal development. Events like this help us build awareness—and most  importantly, remind our youth that their efforts matter,” she explained during her conversation with the VIPs. 

Her words resonated with Prof. Dr. Shukran and En. Zul Adha, both of whom showed genuine interest in ARISMA’s involvement in past community events and their impact on the youth. 

As the first day unfolded, festival visitors joined an ice-breaking session where ARISMA was officially introduced. Curious visitors stopped by to learn more, and soon the booth became a hub for meaningful exchanges. Some came for the cookies and left with a deeper understanding of the academy’s work. 

A snack that nourishes both body and soul. 

On the second day, 4 June, the momentum continued. Many returned to restock their favourite items, while new visitors arrived after hearing about ARISMA through word-of-mouth. 

“My roommate said I had to try the chocochip cookies,” one student shared. “When I found out that the money supports autistic youths, I felt even better about buying them.” 

While sales were steady, something more powerful was happening conversations. Visitors asked how else could they help. Volunteers at the booth shared stories, explained ARISMA’s mission, and described how proceeds go directly into education and training for the youth. 

That afternoon, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aida Mokhtar delivered a talk on Halal and Ethical  Entrepreneurship—and though ARISMA was not presenting, its mission aligned perfectly with the principles discussed. Visitors made the connection between conscious consumerism and businesses like ARISMA, reinforcing how support for such vendors goes beyond the  product—it is a vote for meaningful change. 

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team ensured ARISMA’s message was communicated effectively. In one of the photos from the event, the team members featured. Their teamwork helped ARISMA shine as both a vendor and a cause worth supporting, “A You can still be part of ARISMA’s journey” theme.

The Gombak Food Festival 2.0 may be over, but ARISMA’s mission continues. Every product they offer supports education and empowerment for autistic youth who deserve to  thrive.

Want to support them? Here is how: 

Phone: 012-229 0403 (Puan Siti Khadijah Md. Zamin) 

Instagram: @arisma2012 and Facebook: Arisma – Akademi Remaja Islam Autisma***