Different backgrounds, shared purpose: Merdeka spirit shines as Steven Sim’s foster children help Penang teen resume studies

BUKIT MERTAJAM, Aug 30 — Merdeka spirit goes beyond merely flying the national flag, it is demonstrated in Malaysians' commitment to humanitarian values, helping each other, and providing opportunities for those in need. Steven Sim, the Cooperatives Development Minister and entrepreneur, noted this was evident in the actions of his two foster children, Gabriel Ooi and Sandira, who assisted 17-year-old Nabila, who had to discontinue her education when her mother fell ill and lost her source of income.

Despite their unique backgrounds, race and religion, Ooi and Sandira united to help Nabila continue her education, highlighting the spirit of Merdeka – Malaysians standing together for a shared future, said Sim in a Facebook post. The story started two weeks ago when Gabriel reached out to Sim via WhatsApp, seeking assistance. Both Ooi, who had completed his studies, and Sandira, still pursuing her education at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), cared for Nabila as if they were siblings.

They discovered a TVET college in Sik, Kedah, offering hostel accommodations, which resolved Nabila and her family's primary challenge – the lack of transport to commute to college. After Nassila and her family gave their consent, the children enrolled her at the college, with her scheduled to begin studies next week. Nabila, living with her grandparents since her mother's illness four years ago, had to return to her grandparents' home when her mother lost her income, leading to financial difficulties that forced her to drop out of school.

Sim, after visiting the family, expressed his hope that when Nabila succeeds in the future, she will follow Ooi and Sandira's example of caring for others and lending a helping hand. As Malaysia prepares to celebrate its 69th National Day, Sim emphasized that Merdeka spirit should be measured not just by symbols or celebrations but through Malaysians' willingness to help one another.