Cover Photo: Khairul Imran/Tatler Malaysia
Photo: Khairul Imran/Tatler Malaysia
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One of the greatest motivators for the co-founder of Justice For Sisters is the transgender community itself
Imprisoned, ridiculed and assaulted at the age of 21, Nisha Ayub’s harrowing journey that culminated in her becoming the transgender rights activist she is today isn’t just inspiring, but a sharp reminder that despite 19 years after her experience, Nisha’s past is still another trans woman’s present. One of her greatest motivators is the community itself; having co-founded Seed in 2007 which sought to aid marginalised transgender persons and Justice for Sisters in 2010 as a response to the violent, arbitrary arrests that took place in Seremban against transgender women.
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To date, they’ve managed to fundraise to provide emergency aid with the support of other organisations. They recently finished renovating their drop-in centre with the assistance of the German Embassy, which Nisha hopes can become a place where not only health services can be provided but also a safe haven where transpeople could drop by to see volunteer doctors for check-ups.
“At Justice for Sisters, our number one priority is to get the community to be informed about their rights, and with our network now expanded, a number of young trans leaders are now speaking up. And that fills my heart with pride. I always encourage the younger folk that we can do more because we are more than what society makes us to be. And we are not alone, as there is always help out there if you only reach out.”
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To check out the full Impact List 2020, get your complimentary copy of the December 2020 issue here.
Usually found at home and one with her couch, Koy Yi would either crack open a good book or game in her spare time to wind down after a long day. She also loves to scour art conventions and book fairs alike when she's able, collecting art books of all regions to gain inspiration for her own illustrations. With a keen interest in people and the stories they tell, she enjoys a good talk and a good laugh (preferably over food). Follow her on her Instagram @peiyi57.
