Born Without Fingers, Seamstress Stitches A Life Of Independence

By Noornasrin Salsabila Othman

PASIR PUTEH, June 17 (Bernama) -- Being born without the five fingers on her left hand has never stopped a woman with disabilities from Kampung Tasek, Bukit Jawa, from building an independent life through tailoring - a trade that has sustained her family for more than two decades.

For 46-year-old Liza Mamat, her physical disability has never been a reason to depend on others. Instead, it became the motivation to master a skill that could secure her family’s future.

The mother of four said her interest in sewing began as a teenager after watching her elder sister, Yati, 55, complete orders for women's clothing, including the traditional baju kurung.

Inspired, Liza enrolled in a tailoring course at the Industrial Training and Rehabilitation Centre (PLPP) in Bangi, Selangor, in 2003 to hone her skills.

“Back then, I realised I needed a skill of my own to help earn a living despite not having a high level of education. So I chose sewing and worked hard to master it,” she told Bernama recently.

Liza said the biggest challenge in the early years was adapting to sewing machines and equipment designed for people with a perfect pair of hands.

“One of the difficulties was using tools that required both hands, including handling sewing equipment and cutting fabric.

“But I never gave up. Through constant practice, I developed my own techniques and methods that made sewing easier,” she said.

After completing the nine-month course, she began taking small orders from neighbours and friends before steadily building a loyal customer base.

Today, Liza produces a variety of garments, including baju kurung and baju Melayu, while also offering alteration and repair services.

Each outfit takes about two hours to complete, with charges ranging from RM45 to RM100 depending on the design. She is capable of fulfilling up to 60 orders a month.

“On average, I can complete about three outfits a day. Since I work from home, I have the flexibility to manage my time and sew at my own pace. Alhamdulillah, customers continue to trust my work. Many have become regular clients and return whenever there is a festive season or special occasion,” she said.

Liza said she takes great care with every order, as customer satisfaction remains key to maintaining the trust she has built over the years.

The support of her family, particularly her husband, Mohd Kufri Omar, 47, who is also physically disabled, has been a constant source of strength throughout her journey.

“I have never viewed my disability as a barrier to success. Instead, I use it as motivation to prove my capabilities. If we focus only on our limitations, we will never move forward. I believe everyone has their own strengths and opportunities to succeed in their own way,” she added.

-- BERNAMA