From hesitation to fluency, pupils share how the Projek BacaBaca changed their learning journey
SUBANG JAYA: From stumbling over words to speaking with confidence, two young Projek BacaBaca learners now find joy in reading, and even treat it as an activity to proudly share with others.
Sophia Irine anak Bong Yong Hui, 12, said her reading journey began with hesitation and difficulty in recognising simple words, but consistent support under the initiative has gradually improved her confidence.
“Before this, I struggled to read. Sometimes I would hesitate and get stuck.
“Over time, I got better. Now I’m okay with both Bahasa Melayu and English,” she said, adding that she is now more confident when reading independently.
Sophia, who prefers Bahasa Melayu books, including novels, storybooks and comics, said she now enjoys reading more than before and understands texts more easily.
She said she joined Projek BacaBaca out of her own motivation to improve her reading skills.
“The one-to-one coaching helped me focus better during learning sessions, especially through repeated, guided practice after school.”
She said beyond academics, the biggest change has been her confidence, adding that encouragement from others has helped her progress.
“I feel happy because people praise me now that I can read. I’ve changed, I’m not like before.”
She also said she was previously teased by peers over her reading ability, which motivated her to improve further.
Despite the challenges, Sophia expressed hope to someday become a doctor and encouraged others who are still learning to read not to give up.
Meanwhile, Kesavan Sai, 12, said he was initially unable to read at all before joining Projek BacaBaca, and only recognised words in a very limited way without full understanding.
Kesavan, who hopes to become a firefighter in the future, said the biggest change he has experienced is finally being able to read and understand what he learns in school.
“I feel very happy that I can read now and I can answer questions when people ask me.”
He said he joined the programme after being introduced by a teacher at his school, saying he wanted to take part.
He added that his confidence has improved significantly, particularly in Bahasa Melayu and English, compared with before when he mainly communicated in Tamil and struggled with reading.
“The class is on Thursdays after school for about three hours and the teacher teaches us. We do reading and practice, so I can improve,” – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi
