KUALA LUMPUR – Autistic student Rajendrra Vharma did not speak with prepared lines or rehearsed words. He spoke with the quiet honesty of a child who, for the first time, felt truly seen.
When the government announced free education for students with disabilities, Rajendrra picked up his phone and recorded a short message from the heart.
He did not expect it to travel far, only that it might encourage others like him. Instead, the message reached Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself, who later shared the video, turning a personal moment into a national conversation.
For Rajendrra, a student of the Integrated Special Education Programme at SK Sentul Utama, the announcement was more than a policy decision. It was reassurance.
A reminder that children with special needs are not standing on the sidelines of Malaysia’s future, but are part of its journey.
“This is not just about free education,” he said. “It is a gift of hope. It tells us that our future matters, and that every child, no matter the challenges, has a place in this country.”
His words struck a chord not because they were dramatic, but because they were sincere.
Rajendrra also used the moment to reach out to his peers in special education programmes, urging them not to lose faith in themselves or their abilities.
“Never give up,” he said gently. “Keep learning. Believe in yourself.”
In the same message, he turned his gratitude toward those who have walked every step of the journey with him including his parents who never stopped believing and teachers who guided him with patience and compassion.
“To parents, thank you for being our greatest support. To teachers, thank you for teaching us with care and dedication,” he said.
Beyond the classroom, Rajendrra has found his voice through art.
He is recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records for holding the highest number of art exhibitions in the Special Education Student category, a reflection not only of talent, but of perseverance.
For his mother, Rajesweri Paramsevam, seeing the Prime Minister share her son’s message was an emotional moment she never imagined.
“I am truly at a loss for words,” she said. “To see the Prime Minister himself share this message touched us deeply. My husband, Mohanan Perumal, and I are overwhelmed with gratitude.”
She hopes the attention will do more than celebrate her son that it will open doors for many others.
“We sincerely pray this will bring hope, strength, and encouragement to parents who are raising children with special needs. Recognition like this reminds us that we are not alone,” she said.
The Prime Minister announced yesterday that approximately 3,000 students with disabilities in public universities, polytechnics, and community colleges will receive free education with immediate effect a move widely welcomed as a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and compassionate education system.
For Rajendrra, however, the significance goes beyond numbers and announcements.
It is the simple but powerful feeling of being acknowledged of knowing that his voice, and the voices of children like him, are finally being heard. -MalayaDailyToday
