From Struggle to Hope: An Orang Asli Youth’s Journey of God’s Grace
“There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 23:18
My name is Nolia A/P Yok Segera. I am 20 years old and grew up with eight siblings in Kampung Tibang Ulu Slim, Slim River. Coming from a humble family background shaped my character, strengthened my faith and prepared me to face life’s challenges with courage.
Between the ages of 14 and 17, I experienced one of the hardest seasons of my life. I cared for my newborn sister while my mother faced health complications after giving birth. I was afraid of losing my mother, and due to financial struggles and family responsibilities, I often thought about giving up my studies.
However, my father and my stepsister, Suri, never gave up on me. They encouraged me to continue my education and complete my SPM. Suri became my role model, reminding me not to worry about our family situation and assuring me that she would help care for my younger siblings.
Suri’s own story inspired me. Her mother, my father’s first wife, passed away after giving birth due to limited healthcare access in our village. Poor roads, distant hospitals and limited medical support made treatment difficult. Despite these struggles, Suri always hoped to see children in our village succeed through education. Her encouragement and my father’s support gave me strength when I felt hopeless.
Growing up in a rural village taught me to appreciate what we had. However, I also witnessed the challenges faced by my community, such as limited access to roads, electricity, and the internet. Many children struggled with education, and some of my friends married at a young age because they felt they had limited opportunities. These experiences showed me the importance of education and the hope it can bring.
I am grateful that Malaysian CARE came to support my village. Through them, I met Cikgu Ita. At the age of 13, I joined the CARE Orang Asli youth camp. A shy and quiet child, I learned through the camp to become more courageous, confident and dependent on God.
After completing my SPM, I courageously shared my dream of furthering my studies with Cikgu Ita. Although leaving my village was difficult, I was determined to pursue education despite my weak results. For the first time, I stepped beyond my village to gain knowledge and experience through a two-year Hospitality Programme at Montfort Boys Town, Shah Alam.
CARE did more than support my education. They walked alongside me throughout my journey, prayed with me, attended parents’/guardian’s meetings, and supported my family as well. Their love and care made them become like family to me.
At Montfort, I was determined to improve myself and prepare for my future. I grew in confidence, improved my English, developed new skills and built my character. Serving as a headquarters prefect was one of my most valuable experiences. Through this, I learned leadership, discipline, responsibility, communication and the importance of supporting others.
On 19 June 2026, I graduated. It was a joyful and unforgettable day because I had completed my studies despite many hardships. I was honoured to receive three awards: Discipline, Improvement and Leadership. Looking back, I can hardly believe how far I have come. Only God knows the struggles I faced, and He faithfully gave me the strength to overcome every challenge. I am deeply thankful to God, my family, Malaysian CARE and everyone who supported and believed in me. Their prayers, encouragement and love made this journey possible.
As I look to the future, I hope to continue learning, growing and building a better life while remaining proud of my Orang Asli identity and culture. Although I have gained experiences outside my village, I will never forget my roots.
My hope for other Orang Asli youth is that they will have greater opportunities in education, skills development and employment. I believe they can improve their lives while preserving the traditions, values, and culture that make our communities.
Nolia has graduated from Montfort Boys School and is currently looking for a job. In the meanwhile, she is happily volunteering with Pusat CARE Kampar.