Alexander (right) and Panis pose with the awards.
KOTA KINABALU (May 8): Despite living with severe visual impairment caused by a nerve condition, 18-year-old Alexander Dinus proved that determination, support from teachers and family, and the help of technology can overcome even the toughest challenges after emerging as a recipient of the Anugerah Pelajar Cemerlang Calon Berkeperluan Pendidikan Khas (CBPK) at SMK ST Francis Xavier Keningau.
The eldest of five siblings from Kampung Kapakaan Biah Keningau, took nine subjects in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination last year and even scored an A in English, a subject he admitted was among the most difficult for him.
Alexander said his poor eyesight causes him to experience ‘triple vision’ due to nerve issues affecting his eyesight.
“I have a nerve problem. Some of the nerves are disconnected, and this affects my eyesight.
“My vision is poor and I see people in triple vision,” he said during the school’s Excellence Incentive Award ceremony here on Thursday.
Despite the condition, Alexander refused to let his disability limit his ambitions.
“My plan is maybe to enter the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG) and become an outstanding teacher to produce excellent students,” he said.
Alexander credited his success to the dedication of his teachers, who patiently guided him until he fully understood his lessons.
“When the teacher writes, I cannot see it.
“But because our teachers are kind and caring, they teach us until I understand, especially in Mathematics.
“Even if I don’t understand, the teachers will continue teaching me until I do,” he said.
Alexander also received strong support from his classmates, who often helped read notes and learning materials for him.
Apart from relying on assistance from those around him, Alexander also used technology to support his studies, including artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT with voice features.
“Yes, I use AI like ChatGPT with voice features because I cannot see well. It is really difficult and there are many challenges,” he said.
Alexander believes people with disabilities should never see themselves as weak.
“Just because we have disabilities does not mean we are weak. We have strengths compared to other people,” he said.
Alexander advised students facing similar struggles not to lose hope.
“Never give up. Even with disabilities, let that become the fuel for your spirit. You are not weak, but stronger than others,” he said.
His father, Panis Guntalib, 52, described the family’s long journey in seeking treatment for Alexander’s condition, including visits to specialists at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Kota Kinabalu and consultations with a visiting specialist from Singapore.
“They told us that the nerves in his eyes were not connected properly to his brain. That is simply his destiny,” he said.
Panis said the family eventually accepted Alexander’s condition when he was in primary school.
“I told myself this was all from God, and I accepted it wholeheartedly together with my wife,” he said, adding that his wife, Catherine Norin, is a teacher in Tambunan.
He also expressed gratitude to the teachers who had guided Alexander throughout his education, including those at SK Kitau, SMK Keningau, and especially SMK ST Francis Xavier principal Betty Leong and the teachers.
“For me, even though my son has disabilities, I am grateful to God.
“I also want to thank the teachers who truly taught and guided my child,” he added.
Panis also encouraged parents with children facing similar challenges not to give up.
“Give your children a good education. Do not control them too much. Instead, guide and encourage them.
“When we correct them, do it constructively. Do not put them down or make them feel inferior,” he added.
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