Viral Photo Sparks Generosity: UMS Student Using Gunny Sack Gets Financial Help from Education Minister

Source: SAYS

A viral photo of a Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) student, Rafida Zaiddin, carrying her belongings in a gunny sack while moving into her dormitory has touched many hearts. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek took swift action, arranging financial aid and necessities for Rafida after being moved by her story. Rafida, a bright student from Sandakan, with impressive results from Labuan Matriculation College, is now studying accounting at UMS.

Fadhlina shared that Rafida’s situation resonated with her personally, as she had also sent her eldest child to university on the same day. The minister assured Rafida that all her financial concerns will be addressed until graduation.

Meanwhile, the Higher Education Ministry is actively identifying other students in need at UMS and UiTM Sabah, ensuring support is provided to guarantee their welfare throughout their academic journey.