As a motivational speaker, Ong Boo Siong has conducted over 3,000 talks nationwide since 2009, inspiring students, parents and corporate figures. A talented guitarist, he is also working on a poetry book set for release early next year. The bachelor’s degree in social science (humanities and sociology) holder from Universiti Sains Malaysia is currently pursuing a masters in psychology at a private university in Kuala Lumpur.
Ong Boo Siong , a motivational speaker with phocomelia, inspires Malaysians with his journey of resilience. Photo: The Star/Yap Chee Hong Born with phocomelia 50 years ago, which affected his right hand, the Kelantanese does not let his condition stop him from pursuing a wide range of interests or his dreams. “OKU stands for ‘orang kuat usaha’ (a hardworking person), not ‘orang kurang upaya’,” asserts Ong during a Zoom chat from his home in Kota Baru.
“From young, my father always told me to believe in myself and be grateful for what I have. That’s the key to living a happy and fulfilling life.” Phocomelia, a rare congenital condition, causes underdeveloped or absent limbs.
He believes his disability was caused by medication his mother took during pregnancy. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) falls on Dec 3 annually to promote awareness, understanding and support for the rights, dignity and well-being of people with disabilities. Ong, who received the Unsung Hero award from former deputy law minister Mohamed Hani.
