A Long Road Back to Life

After 18 years in incarceration, Mdm Kamsiah stepped into a world she no longer recognised—with no home, no income, and three children she longs to reconnect with.

Released in 2021 at the age of 43, she faced the daunting task of rebuilding her life from scratch. The years she spent away left deep gaps—not only in time, but in relationships. Before her release, she had already endured abuse in her marriage and a strained connection with her children.

Today, she is working towards a new beginning.

She is currently undergoing a divorce and is doing her best to show up for her three children. She offers care, presence, and whatever support she can, even when she has almost nothing herself.

But her situation remains fragile. She has no home of her own and is unable to apply for a rental flat due to her marital status. For now, she relies on the kindness of a friend who has taken her in. Even basic needs such as attending medical appointments or travelling for job opportunities have become a daily struggle.

At one point, the outside world felt so overwhelming that she considered returning to prison, because at least there, life was certain

But with encouragement from a prison officer and a friend, she made a different choice: to keep going, for her children.

Carrying More Than Her Own Burdens

Since her release, Mdm Kamsiah has taken on jobs in retail and logistics, determined to support herself. But a toxic work environment, coupled with declining mental health, forced her to step away.

On her psychiatrist’s advice, she took six months of medical leave to focus on recovery and manage her condition.

Even while struggling, she continues to care for the friend who shelters her. She accompanies her to medical appointments after her friend was diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis and became unable to work.

Despite everything, Mdm Kamsiah continues trying to rebuild her relationship with her children. She shows up in whatever ways she can.

Choosing Hope, One Day at a Time

“I’m willing to learn. I’m a fast learner,” she says quietly.

But the reality is harsh.

“With my criminal record, nobody wants to take me in.”

Still, she keeps trying. She has started applying for jobs and is waiting to hear back, holding on to hope for a second chance.

In the meantime, she has no income and has been borrowing just to get by. Without support, even getting to a job interview or affording daily meals is a challenge. These barriers make it harder for her to move forward.

“I just want a chance to start again.”

How Your Support Will Help

Ray of Hope aims to raise $1,200 to provide Mdm Kamsiah with $300 per month for the next four months.

This support will go towards essential job search and daily needs such as transportation to interviews, meals, and other basic expenses. With this support, she can focus on securing stable employment.

Right now, she has no safety net. Your support gives her the breathing room to keep going.

More than that, it gives her the support she needs to rebuild her life with dignity, stability, and hope.

With your help, Mdm Kamsiah can move from surviving each day to rebuilding her future. Each step brings her closer to independence and closer to her children.

*The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.