Even without sight, they see the true light of Aidilfitri

2026-03-22 - 23:20

Being visually impaired has not stopped Aisya Humairah Sharizal from excelling in academics and sports – and even co-authoring a book, ‘Cahaya dari Syurga’. (Afizi Ismail @ FMT Lifestyle) KUALA LUMPUR: As the first light of Syawal dawns, Aidilfitri unfolds like a vibrant canvas. There are the bright hues of matching baju Raya, the rich reddish tones of rendang, and ketupat neatly woven in green wrapping. When night falls, fireworks transform the sky into a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour. For many, these sights are part of what makes Hari Raya so magical. But for two Malaysians, the light of Aidilfitri is experienced in a very different way. Instead of festive colours and fireworks, the “nur” – the guiding light in their lives – shines through faith, resilience, and the desire to uplift others. At just 14 months old, Aisya Humairah Mohd Sharizal was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a type of eye cancer, and gradually lost her sight over the years. For the now 15-year-old, Raya comes alive through sounds and scents: the lively chatter of relatives, the aroma of rendang simmering on the stove, and the pop of firecrackers followed by children’s delighted squeals. “I feel a little sad that I can’t see things like the beautiful fireworks, but I accept that this is my reality,” she told FMT Lifestyle. “I’m grateful I still have my sense of touch and hearing to rely on,” added Aisya, who looks forward to making ketupat with her family for Raya and visiting relatives in their hometown of Kedah. Aisya with her mother (third left) and other family members, whose constant support helps her overcome life’s challenges. (Afizi Ismail @ FMT Lifestyle) Blindness has never stopped her from pursuing her ambitions. Just last year, she received the “Anugerah Gemilang OKU” during the national Children’s Day celebration in recognition of her achievements in academics and sports. And her accomplishments are indeed remarkable. At the 2023 Freediving and Finswimming World Championship for the Disabled, she won four gold medals and set four world records. She also clinched a silver medal in chess at the 2024 Para Sukma Games, has braved swimming in the open sea, and remains active as a Scout. Together with her mother, Aisya has even co-authored a book titled “Cahaya dari Syurga” (“Light from Heaven”), sharing her journey growing up visually impaired. Through her determination, Aisya demonstrates that even without sight, it is possible to find one’s own light. “I believe if others can do something, surely I can, too,” she said. “Our abilities may not be the same, but through hard work, we can achieve all that we set out to do.” Nurfarihan Norzaini finds meaning and purpose in producing Braille textbooks for students. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle) Meanwhile, Nurfarihan Norzaini spreads light in another way – by helping young people learn and thrive. Indeed, “nur” is already a part of her name! Born blind, Nurfarihan, who is in her 30s, works at the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB) in its Braille publishing unit, producing textbooks for students across the country. Through her work, she helps Malaysians with visual impairment gain access to the knowledge they need to succeed. “I feel grateful because it’s not easy to find a job nowadays. I’m also happy because I can help students who are like me to study better,” she shared. She recalled that during her own schooldays, visually impaired students did not always have textbooks. Sometimes they even had to share books with those from other classes because there simply weren’t enough copies. Being part of the team that produces those books gives her a sense of pride and purpose. “I’m happy to work here, earn a salary, and do meaningful work that has tangible results,” she said. “I can proudly say, ‘I made this book’.” As Aidilfitri approached, she, too, looked forward to returning to her family’s hometown in Kelantan. She also hopes Malaysians will not take their vision for granted. “As long as you still have your sight, take good care of it.” Despite being blind since birth, Nurfarihan chooses to ‘see the light’ through her role at MAB. (Moganraj Villavan @ FMT Lifestyle) As fireworks sparkle across the sky and homes shimmer with festive lights this Raya, Aisya and Nurfarihan may not see the colours that fill the celebration. But their lives shine in other ways. Through Aisya’s courage to dream and Nurfarihan’s dedication to helping others learn, both women remind us that the true “nur” of Aidilfitri does not lie in what we see, but in the light we bring into the lives of others.