They say it takes a village to raise a child, and for one family in Pengkalan Hulu, Perak, this proved to be true in the most heartwarming way.
When Chinnakaruppan, a retired government employee, found himself unable to afford the registration fees for his 20-year-old daughter Kalaimagal’s university admission, he never expected his entire community to rally behind him.
Photo via Facebook (Universiti Malaysia Kelantan)
It all started when Kalaimagal was accepted into Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree at the Faculty of Hospitality, Tourism, and Wellness. While the news filled her family with pride, it also brought a wave of worry—how would they afford the fees? Chinnakaruppan, who had worked for the Pengkalan Hulu District Council, now lived on just RM700 a month, battling nerve issues and asthma. With no clear solution in sight, he sent out a humble WhatsApp message to a few close friends on September 21st, hoping for a bit of help. What happened next was beyond his wildest expectations.
Moved by his situation, the message spread like wildfire. In a true testament to the power of community, people began sharing the story, and in just two hours, the village raised RM3,000—enough to cover Kalaimagal’s registration and more. Neighbors, friends, and even strangers came together, eager to help this family in need. Their kindness meant Kalaimagal could register at UMK on October 1st, a day that will forever be etched in her memory as the start of her new journey.
But the support didn’t stop there. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan’s Student Welfare and Discipline Division also stepped in to assist, providing RM1,000 in emergency aid, a laptop, and an essentials package through the UMK Cakna Program. Their quick action ensured that Kalaimagal had everything she needed to begin her studies with confidence.
Reflecting on the overwhelming generosity, Kalaimagal expressed her deep gratitude. As the youngest of four siblings, she had always worried about how her family could afford her education. She never imagined that her neighbors and friends would go out of their way to help her pursue her dreams.
“This help has truly lifted a huge burden from our shoulders,” she shared. “I’m so thankful to everyone who contributed. I promise to work hard and chase my dreams, so I can make my family proud and, one day, give back to those who have been so kind to me.”
TERIMA KASIH JIRAN ! 2 JAM VIRAL KALAIMAGAL A/P CHINNAKARUPPAN BERJAYA MASUK UMK TERIMA RM3,000 SUMBANGAN ORANG RAMAI ...
Posted by Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (Rasmi) on Tuesday 1 October 2024
In a world that often seems divided, this small village reminded us all of the power of unity, compassion, and the difference we can make when we come together. For Chinnakaruppan and Kalaimagal, the community’s support was more than just financial assistance—it was a gift of hope, showing that they are not alone in their journey.
