Mother's Unwavering Spirit To Ensure Children's Education Despite Hardship

KANGAR, March 3 (Bernama) -- Life's hardships have not broken the spirit of Nurulnoorazlina Che Nazlan, a single mother determined to secure a brighter future for her eight children despite limited financial resources.

Since separating from her husband two years ago, the 37-year-old has been the sole breadwinner, working as a café assistant at a nearby factory, earning just RM60 a day. Yet, with unwavering resilience, she remains steadfast in prioritising her children's education.

"I always tell my children that education is key to escaping hardship, and if they want to change their fate, they must study hard," she told Bernama recently.

With children aged between 19 and three, Nurulnoorazlina's daily struggles go beyond providing basic necessities. Her eldest child is pursuing studies at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), while three children are in primary school, one in secondary school, and another has just completed the 2024 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exams. Her five-year-old child has started kindergarten this year, alongside her youngest child.

The RM150 Early Schooling Aid (BAP) for each of her four school-going children has been a much-needed lifeline, easing the family's financial burden and helping cover basic school supplies, which amount to about RM1,200.

"I use the assistance money entirely for their school supplies. When all their supplies are in place, they are more motivated to study," she said.

Despite the aid, life remains a constant struggle, especially with two of her children suffering from thalassemia, requiring regular hospital visits two to four times a month.

The additional medical costs further strain the family's tight budget, although monthly aid from the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) helps alleviate some of the pressure.

Yet, even in the face of adversity, Nurulnoorazlina never loses hope. Her unwavering determination to provide the best possible future for her children shines as a testament to the power of a mother's love and sacrifice.

"No matter how difficult life gets, my children's future is far more important than the challenges I face today," she said, holding on to the hope that one day her sacrifices will bear fruit.

-- BERNAMA