“I just want to serve” – Sabahan Pharmacy Graduate Fights Back After Placement Put on Hold Due to OKU Status

Born with a disability, Sophie grew up determined to prove that her future would be defined by her abilities rather than assumptions, and her determination paid off.

She achieved 8As in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), earned a scholarship, and left Sabah for Sydney, Australia, to pursue a degree in Pharmacy. For five years, she lived independently, far from her family, and graduated with outstanding results. She returned home with one simple goal: to serve Malaysia as a pharmacist.

A sudden setback

On 11 May 2026, Sophie received an offer to begin the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) Graduate Pharmacy Training programme. It was the opportunity she had worked towards for years. Then, just days before reporting for duty, she was informed that her placement would be put on hold while her disability status was reviewed.

She was simply told to wait.

Determined to seek answers, Sophie travelled from Sabah to Putrajaya, only to be told that the matter could only be handled over the phone. She felt that her capabilities were being questioned simply because she was a person with a disability, despite everything she had already accomplished.

She had successfully completed one of the most demanding healthcare programmes and was ready to serve.

Standing up and finding support

When Sophie and her uncle came forward to share her story, the Chairman of MPN Keadilan Sabah, Mustapha Sakmud, believed that the matter deserved urgent attention, as he expressed in a Facebook post.

Mustapha personally brought Sophie’s case to Putrajaya and appealed for a prompt resolution. Thankfully, the matter was resolved soon after.

Her placement was officially confirmed

On 13 July, Sophie’s placement was officially confirmed, and she began her training in Kuala Lumpur. On 20 July, she officially reported for duty at a hospital in Sabah, beginning her career with a monthly salary of approximately RM3,500.

Mustapha noted:

“Sophie has never wanted her physical disability to define her future. All she has ever asked for is the opportunity to prove what she is capable of, because she believes everyone deserves the chance to be assessed by their abilities, not their limitations.”

Sophie’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that talent, determination, and commitment exist in every community, including among persons with disabilities.

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