Kota Kinabalu: A viral photo of a student using a gunny sack to carry her belongings on registration day at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) here has sparked widespread attention and concern including that of the Education Minister, Fadhlina Sidek.
The image, shared in various online platforms, showed Rafida Zaiddin’s humble gunny sack placed amongst modern suitcases as she prepared to settle into her dormitory.
One of the posts was by Fadhlina.
“I was able to get in touch with her and immediately arranged all the necessary financial aid and other needs for her to continue her studies,” Fadhlina wrote in her Facebook post, accompanied by a video call image with Rafida.
“The story of Rafida…has touched the hearts of many.
“Her exam results from the Labuan Matriculation College are incredibly impressive and she is currently pursuing an accounting degree at UMS.
“Why is Rafida’s story so close to my heart? Because on the same day, I also sent my eldest child to university.”
Fadhlina concluded with a warm encouragement for the young student.
