Independent spirit

By DEBBIE CHAN

BEING disabled has not dampened Mohd Bukhori Ali’s spirits one bit. He works just as hard as the next guy to achieve his dreams. A sixth former at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Hosba, Kedah, the 19-year-old believes that determination is his biggest asset.

“I have always put in 100% of effort and determination to achieve good results in school.

“I do not want to use my disability as an excuse so I strive extra hard to prove that I can do it,” Bukhori said.

Inspired: Mohd Bukhori Ali working on a painting as school guardian and Scoutmaster Hajah Normah Mohd Yusuf looks on.

His willpower, enthusiasm and high spirits earned him the Bintang Semangat Jerai award from the Sultan of Kedah.

Although born with deformed hands and legs, Bukhori has learnt to write and paint using his cheek and shoulder.

Bukhori, who is talented in painting, took the opportunity to show off the beauty of Malaysia to the world through his art at the World Village of the World Scout Jamboree 2007 in England, which he attended.

“Joining the Scout movement has helped build my confidence and self-esteem. Attending the jamboree was a dream come true for me. I’m grateful to the sponsors who believed in me and help send me to the event.”

Bukhori’s parents have been very supportive of his involvement in school activities.

Inspired by his siblings, his aspires to further his studies in university.

“All my siblings are currently studying in university, and I want to achieve the same goal, so I am working hard for my STPM examinations.

“I hope to study arts or business because they are among my favourite subjects,” he said.

“I’m really glad I have been given equal treatment and access to opportunities like education and co-curricular activities.

“I have not been discriminated against or singled out because of my disability except for tasks that require physical fitness like sports.”

As Malaysia’s 50th independence day approaches, Bukhori feels that he will not only be celebrating the freedom of his country but also his own independence – being able to do things without having to rely too much on others.

“I can be independent just like everyone else. I can to do whatever I want as long as I put my heart into it. I’m very proud to be born here because Malaysia is a safe and secure country.

“The country has advanced so much and we must continue contributing to its well-being,” Bukhori said.