Mr. D Hair Studio in Bangi
Some of us have extraordinary abilities, including those on the autism spectrum who have to navigate life with a little more finesse. For these neurodiverse individuals, simple tasks like getting a haircut can be a challenge.
At Mr. D Hair Studio, this challenge is turned into a mission. Here, the hum of clippers carries a rhythm far beyond style. This is because this humble haven exists for a very special group of clients: children on the autism spectrum. At the helm of the whole show is Darmalingam Manickam, 72, and his son, Sivarajah Darmalingam, 46.
A legacy of service and dedication
The story of Mr. D Hair Studio is one of heritage, heart, and quiet heroism.
The barbershop, which started on KL’s Jalan Cochrane with the name Murasoli, was founded by Mr Manickam’s father. It was a modest gathering place where the neighbourhood men would sit, chat, and leave feeling just a little sharper.
After a long stint as a technician at Telekom Malaysia, Mr Manickam – better known as Mr D among his clients – picked up his father’s scissors, continuing the family tradition in the very same shop. But life, as it often does, brought change.
When Murasoli ceased operating in 2001, the family legacy found a new home in Bangi with the establishment of a new barbershop in Seksyen 3. At that time, Sivarajah worked as a Customer Service Executive at Telekom. Inspired by his family’s calling, he made the decision to dedicate himself fully to the barbershop, ensuring the craft would thrive for generations to come.
For the last 20 years, the father-and-son establishment has been a fixture in Bangi, delivering fresh cuts and bold styles. But 15 years ago, something extraordinary happened.
It all began with a boy
A little boy named Afiq, just 4 years old, came to Mr. D Hair Studio for a haircut. Unlike most of Mr Manickam’s clients, Afiq is on the autism spectrum, and back then, the idea of catering to sensory-sensitive children was nearly unheard of.
Nonetheless, with patience, skill, and a touch of grace, Mr D and Sivarajah worked their magic.
Afiq, now 20, still comes to Mr D for his regular trims – a testament to the trust built on years of quiet understanding.
This single haircut was the beginning of something far greater than the father-son duo could have imagined. The simple act of kindness turned into a calling. Word spread and families with children on the autism spectrum from Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Johor Bahru, and as far as Terengganu and Kelantan, began making the journey to Mr. D Hair Studio.
When asked about his purpose, Mr D told TheSmartLocal Malaysia that it’s deeply personal. His late sister, Malini Manickam, had Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 3. As the eldest sibling, he knows all too well the patience, compassion, and unshakable love it takes to care for children with special needs.
This work, he says, is a mix of honour and remembrance – a tribute to Malini and a promise to every parent who walks through their door.
“To care for these children takes time, but it’s worth everything”, Mr. D reflected. “We don’t see it as just a haircut. It’s trust, love, and connection”.
Today, Mr. D Hair Studio is more than just a barbershop. It’s a sanctuary where every child – with autism or not – is seen, respected, and celebrated. Here, they walk out not just with a fresh haircut, but with their heads held high, feeling like a million bucks.
Patience, sensitivity, and the gentle art of cutting hair
It’s not easy, what Mr D and Mr Rajah do. For them, their work isn’t just about giving patrons a neat trim or a fresh fade; it’s about building trust and understanding a unique set of needs.
Every haircut is an act of patience, as a child’s sensory sensitivities challenge the process. Many of them struggle with the loud noise of clippers, the sensation of the hairdryer, or even the feel of the comb in their hair. Some even become agitated – punching, kicking, and even lashing out.
However, Mr Rajah is quick to remind us: “It’s not them, it’s their heightened sensory level. We can’t get angry with them”.
The team, though small with just the two of them, knows how to work around these challenges. They don’t rush; they take their time.
On top of cutting hair, they educate the children – introducing the clippers slowly, showing them the tools, letting them see how their hair is cleaned up after. Little gestures like this help reduce fear and make the experience less overwhelming, shared Mr. Rajah.
Recalling the countless hugs and smiles he shared with these special children, he fondly remembers those encounters: “It’s a blessing.”
Mr Rajah mentioned that handling these kids isn’t easy, but the joy they bring when they trust you, when they finally let you touch them – it’s something ordinary people can’t give. He added, “The hug from a child after a haircut is pure magic”.
A mission to educate and raise awareness
Mr. D Hair Studio isn’t just a place for a fresh cut – it’s a place of learning. For the father-and-son duo, it’s a chance to spread awareness about autism and the challenges that come with it.
Operating from 10am-9pm every day, except Tuesdays, the team welcomes children with autism as young as newborns to teenagers, each with their own needs. The haircut itself may start at RM20, but the value of the service goes far beyond money. Working with these individuals for over two decades, they understand that every client requires a different approach.
When asked about handling parents who can be fussy, Mr Rajah shared that they’re not afraid to speak up.
“We tell them the truth. We have our system, and it works. If it doesn’t, we won’t let that haircut finish halfway”, he shared.
Knowing how to work with an autistic child is a rare skill – what more the ability to hold the line while remaining compassionate. Watching the father-and-son duo at work – calmly trimming hair while soothing special children in tears – you quickly realise this isn’t just about haircuts. It’s about creating a haven, a space where both parents and children can exhale, feel seen and safe, and be assured that their little one is in the most patient, capable hands.
A heartfelt journey of care and gratitude
At the heart of Mr. D Hair Studio lies something far more profound than the craft of hairstyling: a deep, meaningful connection with their clients. The father and son offer not just a haircut; it’s a sense of security, patience, and unwavering support for parents of children with autism.
As the shop continues to thrive and attract clients from across the country, it’s clear that their work is about far more than a job – it’s a soul purpose. They may have started as a small family business, but now they’re much more.
For Sivarajah and Darmalingam, the real reward isn’t found in ringgit notes but in the smiles, hugs, and unwavering trust of their autism clients.
In their hands, every haircut becomes a quiet story – one of patience, empathy, and profound human connection. Each child, like an angel sent from above, reminds them that this work is more than a craft; it’s a calling.
If you’re looking for a barbershop experienced in cutting hair for children with autism, or know someone who is, you can visit them at the address below:
Address: 24, Jalan 3/70, Seksyen 3 Bandar Baru Bangi, 43650, Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor
Opening hours: Wed-Mon 8am-4pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Contact: 016-445 3178 | Mr. D Hair Studio Facebook | Instagram
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Cover image adapted from: TheSmartLocal Malaysia
Some quotes have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Photography by Yusintha.