Rising back-to-school costs have once again highlighted the financial strain faced by many Malaysian parents, especially those with more than one school-going child.
According to mStar, a woman recently shared an emotional encounter she witnessed while shopping for school supplies, describing how a mother was forced to cancel the purchase of school books for one of her three children after realising she did not have enough money.
Bill exceeded RM500
According to the woman, the total cost for books and sports attire for all three children had exceeded RM500, even after the shop reduced the number of exercise books at the mother’s request so her children could reuse what they already had at home.
“My husband couldn’t bear to see it and offered to pay first. How could she cancel the purchase when all her children were there with her? It was heartbreaking, and that amount didn’t even include other school uniforms yet.”
She added that the children’s joy upon receiving their new books and sportswear was both touching and painful to witness. The moment also brought back memories of her own past struggles as a mother.
They were so happy with their books and sports clothes. When we were about to leave, I saw them walking along the main road. I stopped and asked where they were heading,” she shared.
The mother explained that her car had broken down, forcing them to walk home. The woman then offered them a ride.
“When I saw them, it felt like I was seeing myself from years ago with my own children. Walking everywhere or taking the bus. I’m sharing this not to show off, but because I understand how hard it is,” she said.
