As the academic year unfolds, Malaysia’s public universities are welcoming a new generation of students, each brimming with ambition and hope for a brighter future. Recently, a Malaysian father’s dream of enrolling his daughter at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) became a reality when neighbors came together to raise RM3,000 in just two hours.

A Father’s Plea Goes Viral

This heartwarming story was shared on the official Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (Rasmi) Facebook page.

On 21 September 2024, Chinnakaruppan a/l Muthu, a 67-year-old retired civil servant, sent a heartfelt message to a few friends via WhatsApp. He was overjoyed that his youngest daughter, Kalaimagal a/p Chinnakaruppan, had secured a spot at UMK to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality, Tourism, and Wellness.

Despite the pride he felt, Chinnakaruppan was deeply worried — his family didn’t have enough money to cover the registration fees. As a member of the B40 community, surviving on a modest pension of RM700 a month, he wasn’t sure where to turn. He hoped a few kind souls would help, unaware that his plea would reach far beyond his immediate circle.

Immediate Help from the Neighbors

His message quickly spread through the WhatsApp group, touching the hearts of many. Within just two hours, neighbors banded together to raise RM3,000, enough to cover Kalaimagal’s registration fees.

Kalaimagal, who had been uncertain about how she would continue her studies, was both surprised and deeply touched by the generosity of her community. On 1 October 2024, she arrived at UMK’s Kota Bharu campus to officially register, her financial concerns eased thanks to the kindness of those around her.

Grateful Beyond Words

Chinnakaruppan, who also suffers from nerve issues and asthma, expressed his overwhelming gratitude. “After the post went viral, they managed to raise RM3,000, which was given to us for university expenses,” he said.

Adding to the generosity, UMK’s Student Welfare and Discipline Division (BKTP) responded through their UMK Cakna Programme, providing Kalaimagal with an emergency donation of RM1,000, a laptop, and basic necessities, ensuring she could begin her studies without further financial worries.

As the youngest of four siblings, Kalaimagal shared her gratitude, saying, “I never imagined my neighbors would go to such lengths to help me prepare for university. Their donations have lifted the burden of my expenses on registration day.”

With determination, she added, “I promise to work hard and pursue my dream of improving my family’s life. We are forever grateful for the support we’ve received.”

The story also caught the attention of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Chairman, Datuk Wira Dr. Asyraf Wajdi bin Dato’ Dusuki, who extended further support to ensure Kalaimagal could continue her studies at UMK.

Although Kalaimagal’s university journey began with uncertainty, her future now looks promising, thanks to the generosity of those who believed in her potential.