True grit: Limbless Jafri defies limits to inspire and earn a living

New Straits Times

2 days ago

KOTA BARU: Despite being born without hands and toes, 34-year-old Mohamad Jafri Daud has never let his disability stand in the way of earning a living with his wife.
With unwavering determination, Jafri has made it his life's mission to change negative perceptions of people with disabilities (OKU), showing that grit and self-belief matter more than physical limitations.
"Rather than expecting sympathy, my condition gives me strength. I don't see it as a hindrance, but as a motivation to prove that we, too, are capable.
"I'm also blessed to have a supportive wife, Nur Aika Mansor, 30, who accepted me wholeheartedly and has been my pillar of strength.
"As long as I am able, I want to be responsible for providing for my family. Being an OKU has pushed me to do my best, just like anyone else," he said at his home in Panchor.
Affectionately known as "Pak Do", Jafri said he and his wife tried various ventures, including selling second-hand clothes online during the Covid-19 pandemic but had to stop in 2022 due to poor demand.
"Even then, we never gave up. We started selling 'keropok' by the roadside for about a year. Then, in November last year, my wife's family offered us a space at their burger stall. That's where we started our burger business," he said.
Jafri also works as a helper at the stall, earning RM65 per day. Together, the couple now sells up to 50 burgers daily at RM3 each, a feat he takes pride in, despite his physical challenges.
"Initially, the hardest part was separating the burger patties and placing them on the hot plate, since I don't have fingers like everyone else. But over time, I got used to it and can now do it on my own. My wife helps by wrapping the burgers," he said.
The 11th of 12 siblings, Jafri said they hope to one day open a kiosk or a small shop of their own.
To supplement their income, he also takes up small jobs repairing jeans, and processes and sells traditional 'bekok' (dried fermented fish).
While Jafri receives a monthly RM450 allowance from the Welfare Department, he does not want to rely solely on government aid.
"I hope my story inspires other OKU not to give up on life. Don't let your condition become an excuse. With effort, prayer and the right attitude, there is always a way forward," he said.