Barriers to Implementing Equine Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder in Malaysia: Stakeholder Perspectives

Equine therapy (ET) has shown promise as an effective intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), yet its implementation faces significant challenges, particularly in diverse cultural and resource-limited settings such as Malaysia. This article examines the barriers to implementing equine therapy for ASD in Malaysia through the perspectives of key stakeholders, including ET coaches and parents. Qualitative data collected from interviews with seven respondents—comprising five parents of ASD children and two ET coaches—reveal multifaceted challenges. These include limited awareness of ET, high costs, weather-related disruptions due to the outdoor setting, and difficulties in managing ASD children during therapy sessions. Stakeholders also highlight the need for greater collaboration from community organizations to address these barriers. This study conducted in the central region of Malaysia, and highlighted the importance of developing cost-effective and scalable models for ET in the country, while advocating for policy support and public education to enhance its acceptance and accessibility. By identifying and addressing these barriers, this research aims to pave the way for more inclusive and effective therapeutic options for children with ASD in Malaysia and similar contexts. Keywords: equine therapy, autism, children