BUKIT MERTAJAM April 12, 2016 – The success story of Nurul Amani, a student from SMK Penanti who sat for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination this year, stands as proof that hardship is not a barrier to success. The goddaughter of Bukit Mertajam Member of Parliament, Steven Sim Chee Keong, obtained outstanding results that made her family proud, despite being raised single-handedly by her mother after losing her father six years ago.
In a social media post, Steven Sim shared how Nurul Amani, the only child of the late Zabani – a lorry driver who passed away due to diabetes complications – continued to strive diligently. Her mother, Puan Asma, has been supporting the family by working as a house cleaner, with irregular and uncertain income.
“Last week in the morning, Amani messaged me to show her exam results, which were quite impressive. I smiled widely, but I know the biggest smile came from her mother,” said Steven Sim.
Last year, during Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Permatang Pauh, Amani bravely stepped forward and honestly shared her family’s hardships with the Prime Minister, including her inability to afford motorcycle training classes. Her plea caught the attention of the Prime Minister, who instructed his staff to visit her home. It was from there that YB Steven Sim got to know Amani and took her in as his goddaughter so she no longer had to worry about finances while continuing her studies, especially while preparing for the SPM examination.
A few days ago, after the SPM results were announced, Amani not only proved her capabilities with excellent results but also shared her big dreams. “I want to become a forensic police officer, YB, and one day I dream of furthering my studies at a university in China,” Amani whispered to YB Steven Sim.
However, behind her high aspirations, Amani’s heart remains full of love for her mother. “But I don’t want to be far from my mother. If possible, I want to continue my studies at an IPT (higher learning institution) around Permatang Pauh so that I can easily commute and visit my mother every day,” she said.
Steven Sim was deeply touched by his goddaughter’s attitude – not only does she have big ambitions, but she is also filled with love and care for her mother. He expressed pride in Amani for proving that courage, perseverance, and discipline can overcome all challenges.
“She never complains; instead, she always works hard and remains disciplined. Her dream to become a forensic police officer, to continue her studies in matriculation or polytechnic, and one day pursue knowledge at a university abroad is proof that ambitions have no limits,” he said.
As a gesture of support, Steven Sim gifted Amani a laptop as encouragement for her to step into university life and begin her journey towards becoming a professional forensic police officer in the future.
“I believe Amani will continue to move forward. She is not just my goddaughter, but a symbol of hope that every person deserves the opportunity to succeed,” he added.
“Jalan Teruih, my child,” Steven Sim said with great pride.
Amani’s story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that support from the community and the government can change the life trajectory of individuals, especially children from underprivileged backgrounds.
About The Author
