Yogeswaran & Kuhan : They Were Given a Chance, and They Turned It Into a Future

As Merdeka approaches, we often celebrate the people who have contributed to the country in big and visible ways. But sometimes, inspiration can be found in the quiet determination of ordinary Malaysians who wake up every morning, go to work, support their families and continue moving forward despite the obstacles placed in their path.

For R. Yogeswaran and S. Kuhan, the journey to employment was not an easy one. Their stories are different, but they share one powerful message, sometimes, all a person need is someone willing to see their ability before their limitations.

For YOGESWARAN, 34, working as a receptionist at a shipping company in Klang has become more than just a job. It has given him something he once struggled to find – CONFIDENCE. 

Born without arms due to a congenital condition affecting his upper limbs, Yogeswaran faced numerous challenges growing up. His education was disrupted, and for years, he remained at home with his parents. But his parents never stopped encouraging him.

Despite being unable to continue his formal education, they sent him for tuition, where he developed his communication and writing skills. As he grew older, Yogeswaran began searching for employment. And that was when another difficult chapter began. He applied for jobs and attended interviews, only to face repeated rejection. People saw what he could not physically do before seeing what he could do.

At times, the rejection affected his confidence so deeply that he began to wonder whether anyone would ever give him a chance.

“I have been rejected many times, but I still hoped that someone would believe in me and give me an opportunity to prove what I can do,” he said.

That opportunity eventually came in 2019, when he was offered a position at Maritime Network Sdn Bhd by its Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Seri R. Jeyenderan.

For Yogeswaran, it was a turning point. He was no longer looking for a job but finally being given the opportunity to prove that he could work, contribute and build a life of his own.

Today, he has been with the company for seven years. His responsibilities may seem like part of an ordinary workday, answering phone calls, greeting visitors and handling customer enquiries, but for Yogeswaran, every working day represents something much bigger.

“My parents always told me to take care of myself and not depend on anyone. They encouraged me to build my own life,” he said.

Today, he can support himself and contribute to his family with his own earnings. And one of the things that brings him the greatest happiness is being able to use his salary to buy things for his parents. And he hopes others facing similar challenges will remember that rejection does not have to be the end of the journey.

“We should not give up. No matter how many times we are rejected, we must keep trying and continue looking for opportunities,” he said.

At the same workplace is 26-year-old S. KUHAN, who has spent seven years working in the operations department. Kuhan lives with limited movement in his right hand and leg, and his journey into the workforce also came with its share of challenges. He initially pursued a computer-related course but was unable to complete his studies.

Unsure of what to do next, he was eventually given an opportunity to join the company after his father spoke to his employer. Starting a new job was not easy.

Kuhan had no background in logistics and had to learn everything from the beginning. He started with simple tasks and gradually learned how the operations worked. Over time, he took on responsibilities involving filing and organising documents and became someone his colleagues could approach when they needed help locating important records.

What began as something unfamiliar slowly became something he could confidently call his own.

“I have faced many difficulties in my life, but I always try to do whatever I can,” he said.

His journey has also involved a long process of treatment and physiotherapy. There were times when even walking was difficult, and he had to work hard to regain his strength. But he kept going and now, he continues to manage his condition while working towards another personal goal obtaining his driving licence.

For KUHAN, the support he received at work played an important role in his growth. He said his colleagues and the company not only helped him learn the job but also gave him the motivation to believe in himself. And behind that confidence are his parents, whom he credits as his biggest source of encouragement.

“They always encouraged me and told me that I could do things,” he said.

That belief eventually became his own.

“I always tell myself - I can do this. I can do it now.”

He believes many people with disabilities continue to face barriers to employment because of stereotypes, misconceptions and workplaces that are not adequately equipped to accommodate them.

“People with disabilities are actually able to contribute equally when given the appropriate opportunities and support,” he said.

He believes an inclusive workplace does more than change the life of an employee. It changes the way society sees ability.

“When society opens up more space to people with disabilities, it not only changes their lives but also creates a more inclusive world for all,” he said.

Yogeswaran and Kuhan did not ask for their circumstances to be changed. They asked for an opportunity. And when that opportunity came, they showed what they could do with it. Their stories remind us that sometimes, changing someone's life does not require a grand gesture. Sometimes, it begins with saying:

“Come, give it a try.”

And perhaps that is what makes them true Ulagam heroes this Merdeka, not because their journeys were easy, but because they kept moving forward when giving up would have been easier.

When we make space for one another, we don't just change individual lives, we build a Malaysia where everyone has a chance to belong, contribute and thrive.