Disabled Terengganu father keeps his family moving

Zani Mamat, a 48-year-old resident of Jertih, embarks on a daily school run for his four disabled children using his three-wheeled motorcycle. The father of four, who was born with a disability affecting both legs and uses crutches, picks up his children from two schools near his home. Zani's youngest son, Zain Nazmi, 11, is followed by Zarif Nazmi, 15, and Zulaika Najwa, 13.

Zani's wife, Nurul Hafizan, 38, helps him manage the routine of raising their children, three of whom have physical disabilities. Despite the challenges, Zani remains grateful for his children's independence and motivated to keep going. Zani's eldest child, Zawani Najwa, 17, has paralysis in both legs and moves by crawling or scooting.

Zarif's legs have been bent and rigid since birth, and he uses a wheelchair at school and scoots at home. Zain also attends special education classes and uses a wheelchair. Zulaika, the only able-bodied child, is in Form One at SMK Tembila. Zani supplements his family income by operating an anchovy-processing workshop during the fishing season and repairing fishermen's nets when catches are poor.

He also receives financial support from the social welfare department for his disabled children. Zani worries about his children's future and hopes they will become more independent.