Tailor does not let her physical disability stop her

Pictures from Utusan Malaysia and The New Straits Times

Tailor does not let her physical disability stop her

By: Patrick Beech

She is only 117 cm tall, but 25-year-old Nurul Izzah Mohammad Asri, has not allowed her physical disability to stop her from pursuing her dreams.

She has always wanted to be a tailor and having to stand on a chair to take her customer's measurements is all part of her stride.

Nurul, from Merbau Kudung in Tasek Gelugor has taken in about 50 orders this Hari Raya for baju kurung, baju kebaya, jubah and baju melayu. Last year, she only got 20 orders during the festive season.

"I received countless requests, but dare not take in more orders for fear that I may not be able to complete them on time. So, I'll stick with just 50 orders. I will only do alterations for the rest.

"Although 50 orders seem little, I am glad that I am able to earn some money to help my family this festive season," she said.

Nurul said there was no issue with using the sewing machine, but she does use a customised chair so that her feet reach the machine's pedal.

She said she had always dreamt of being a chef after completing her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination.

"However, there were many limitations due to my size. I then discussed with my mum on what I should do next as I have always enjoyed learning new things. It was then that my mum recommended I take up tailoring.

"Initially, my dad bought me my first sewing machine at a cost of RM800. I subsequently bought another with my own savings and allowance I received from the Welfare Department at a cost of RM1,500 back in 2020," she said, adding that she had also attended sewing courses to better her skills.