Can-do spirit: Lee (right) representing Penang at Sukan Malaysia (Sukma) in August.
PETALING JAYA: Lee Teck Qing’s life is a powerful story of resilience, perseverance and hope.
Although he is only 20, he has faced more challenges than most people would experience in a lifetime.
Despite his difficult upbringing, Lee is focused on moving forward, determined to build a better future for himself and inspire others along the way.
Lee’s early life was far from stable. At the age of five, he was sent to an orphanage, a decision made by his parents due to their difficult circumstances.
He moved between several orphanages throughout his childhood, never staying in one place for long.
“I was always adapting to new environments,” he said.
By the time he was 12, Lee felt the weight of responsibility to contribute financially to the orphanage in which he was staying.
“I wanted to help, however, I could,” he said.
Throughout the years, he had taken various roles including washing dishes in restaurants, working as a promoter, a tuition teacher and even a judo instructor.
Despite the hardships, Lee remained determined to push himself, both physically and mentally.
One of his passions was judo, a sport that not only taught him discipline but also provided an outlet for his competitive spirit.
His hard work culminated in representing judo at Sukan Malaysia (Sukma), a significant achievement that showcased his determination.
“Judo has taught me a lot about resilience and discipline,” he said proudly.
Beyond competition, judo has given Lee a sense of belonging – something he lacked growing up.
“In judo, we talk about the ‘judo family’, and for someone like me who didn’t grow up with a family, it’s comforting to have that bond,” he said.
Lee hopes to make judo more accessible throughout Penang, especially on the mainland where he is from, so that others can benefit from the sport’s values, just as he had.
“I want everyone in Penang to know judo, not only as self-defence but also for its moral and mental values.”
Looking ahead, Lee also has a clear goal: to qualify for the SEA Games and bring a gold medal home.
This year, Lee began the difficult process of reconnecting with his parents.
While their relationship has been strained for much of his life, he has chosen to open his heart to them.
“I understand why they did what they did. It wasn’t easy for them, and I don’t hold it against them.”
Though they are taking things one step at a time, Lee hopes to eventually have a good relationship with his parents.
“I’ve made peace with the past, and I’m hopeful that we can move forward,” he said.
In recent months, Lee has received a lifeline that has helped ease some of his burdens.
Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim stepped in to assist him by covering his university fees and providing an allowance.
Now studying Bioprocess Engineering Technology at USM Penang, Lee has new goals in mind for his future.
“I want to start a business someday that offers healthy options in the form of food, drinks, and affordable medicine,” he said.
With his studies now funded and his involvement in judo, Lee is optimistic about what lies ahead.
He’s not just thinking about surviving anymore – he’s thinking about thriving and finding ways to give back.
“I want to help others who have gone through what I’ve gone through,” he said.
Whether it’s community work, teaching, or just being a voice of encouragement, Lee wants to use his experiences to inspire others who might feel as lost as he once did.
He has advice for those going through similar struggles.
“Always keep moving forward and make changes when things aren’t working.
“Setting small goals will help you reach bigger ones later. Confidence is also key – believe in yourself even when things get tough,” he said.
