From the very beginning, life did not make things easy for Farid. Born in a breech position, his delivery was delayed. As explained by Dr. Ainun, this led to developmental challenges that shaped much of his childhood. He grew up with learning difficulties, severe stuttering, and often seemed “lost in his own world” to those around him.
School was especially hard. Despite his father being a teacher at the same school, Farid was labelled slow, misunderstood, and bullied. Many saw only his struggles. Few saw his determination.
What makes Farid’s story extraordinary is not the hardship, but his refusal to give up.
He sat for the SPM examination ten times, each attempt a quiet act of courage. When others would have stopped, Farid continued. He later retook STPM twice. Eventually, his perseverance paid off. He earned a Bachelor of Arts, followed by a Diploma in Education, the milestone that finally opened the door to his dream of becoming a teacher.
While chasing that dream, Farid worked wherever he could. He served as a hospital security guard, a school guard, a guard at an old folks’ home, and helped his father in the paddy fields. These were not glamorous jobs, but they were honest ones. Each role reflected his resilience and willingness to keep moving forward.
During his teaching interview, Farid chose honesty. He openly shared about his OKU card. After the interview, he broke down in tears. It was not weakness. It was release. A release after decades of pushing, enduring, and believing in a future that often felt out of reach.
Today, at 37 years old, Farid finally stands where he always hoped to be. He is a teacher.
His journey reminds us that success has no deadline. Progress does not have to look fast to be meaningful. And courage is not about speed, but about continuing to walk, even when the road takes longer than expected.