Award-winning Malaysian deaf baker runs a bakery in Padang Besar, Perlis

Hafiz’s passion for cake decorating developed while undergoing a two-year culinary course at Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin in Perlis. Photos: Wan Muhammad Hafizunif Wan Roslan

Felda Mata Air, located in the border town of Padang Besar, Perlis is home to a close-knit community of rural farmers. In this area, one bakery stands out, offering fresh buns, cakes and biscuits to the local residents. Bakery W.M.H. Enterprise has been operating since 2018, and what makes it truly unique is that it is run by a deaf baker named Wan Muhammad Hafizunif Wan Roslan.

“I started a home bakery in 2015, and with government assistance, I opened my shop in 2018. I enjoy baking because it gives me joy,” said Wan Muhammad Hafizunif, 28, in an email interview.

Fondly known as Hafiz, he has come a long way since being diagnosed with a hearing disability when he was a child. Last year, he chalked his biggest milestone when he clinched a bronze medal in the cake decorating category at the 10th Abilympics in Metz, France.

“I never imagined being able to compete in the Abilympics, let alone represent the country in such a competition. It was even sweeter when I won a bronze medal for my country. It’s hard to describe the feeling – I am very proud,” said the former student of Sekolah Pendidikan Khas Persekutuan Pulau Pinang.

‘Cake decoration is a form of therapy for me when it turns out just as I imagined,’ says Hafiz.The Abilympics is an international skills-based competition for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), derived from the term “Olympics of Abilities”. Like the Olympics, the Abilympics is held once every four years.

The Malaysian Council for Rehabilitation (MCR) coordinates the Abilympics competition in Malaysia, selecting qualified participants with disabilities to represent the country in international competitions.

The special baker In 2016, Hafiz did a two-year culinary course at Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin in Arau. He excelled in the course, and was eventually selected to participate in the Abilympics.

“I initially joined a culinary class because I have had a passion for cooking since I was young, helping my mother in the kitchen. But when I started learning about cake decoration, I became really interested in that. That’s when my passion for cake decoration began, and I have been learning new things about it every day. The motivation from my lecturers also increased my interest.

“I really love beautiful things, and cake decoration is a form of therapy for me. I think I was chosen to compete in the Abilympics because of my talent and good fortune,” explained Hafiz, who uploads photos of his baked goods on his Facebook page.

Hafiz shows how, with the right vocational training and support, anyone can realise their full potential, regardless of their disability.

Hafiz with his parents, Wan Roslan Wan Omar (left) and Wan Zurina Wan Salin, who have been his pillars of strength.He added that his parents, who are Felda settlers, and his three siblings, have been his greatest supporters and pillars of strength. His mother Wan Zurina Wan Salin, 55, helps him run the bakery.

“No one wants to have these limitations, but I’m grateful that my family has always strived for my success. My parents once tried to get me a hearing aid when I was about five years old, but it didn’t work for me.

“They made sure to get me the best education possible by sending me to a special education school in Penang, even though their financial situation wasn’t great. But they still made the effort for me, and this education has greatly helped me gain the confidence to face life,” shared Hafiz, who has also attended several short baking courses to further refine his skills.

Hafiz believes that people with hearing disabilities should not let their challenges hinder their path to success.

“My biggest challenge is promoting my business and to reach a larger audience. But I also believe I should not let limitations become an excuse not to work harder. Pursue what you love with determination and focus. Strengths and weaknesses are personal traits, but with confidence and dedication, we can transform challenges into our greatest assets,” he said.

Showcasing their talents

To date, 46 participants from Abilympics Malaysia have competed in six Abilympics competitions across various countries, bringing home 14 medals and seven special awards. Among the 16 categories in the competition are embroidery, floral arrangement, painting, cooking, baking and photography.

MCR President Datin Paduka Khatijah Suleiman explained that Hafiz was selected for the 10th Abilympics due to his outstanding baking talent and his ability to inspire others.

With the right training, members of the deaf community like Hafiz (second from right) can thrive and build successful careers.“He is truly exceptional, with a talent that aligns perfectly with his passion. It’s inspiring to see a young person from Perlis with such a competitive spirit. I admire him greatly and am deeply grateful to his trainer for their patience and dedication.”

Khatijah added that the Abilympics offers a valuable platform for persons with disabilities, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and potential on par with their able-bodied peers.

“Participation in the Abilympics is crucial as it empowers persons with disabilities to demonstrate their professionalism in various tasks and categories. Our participants receive expert guidance from certified trainers, which enhances their skills and builds their confidence. The training ensures that they perform their tasks to the highest standards.

“The MCR is committed to supporting the disabled community through awareness programmes, roadshows and collaborations with non-governmental organisations and agencies. We aim to provide workshops on the necessary skills and ensure no one is left behind.

“We hope the government will recognise the Abilympics alongside the Paralympics and continue to collaborate with strategic partners to enhance these events,” Khatijah said.