In Kuala Lumpur, a mother’s dedication has helped her autistic son transform his musical talent into a sustainable career after more than a decade of practice. Mah Jin Min, 30, now earns a living performing as a guzheng busker, showcasing the traditional Chinese plucked zither at various venues.
Mah’s mother, Luo Li Li, 65, recalled the challenges her son faced during childhood. Diagnosed with autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Mah struggled with concentration and restlessness, which hindered his learning. Luo said that during those early years, both outsiders and relatives doubted her son’s potential. “Many people said I had given birth to a stupid child,” Luo said, adding that the family often endured stares and whispers whenever they visited her hometown. Despite the discouragement, Luo remained committed to supporting Mah.
The turning point came when Luo introduced Mah to music through an electronic keyboard. Mah demonstrated impressive musical ability by quickly memorizing and playing pieces after hearing them just once. When the family took a trip to Shanghai, China, Mah, then 12, was captivated by the sound of the guzheng performed at a local restaurant. He requested the instrument, and Luo agreed on the condition that he would approach learning it with seriousness.
Mah developed a strong passion for the guzheng, dedicating more than ten years to mastering the instrument. Luo noted her son’s patience and precision, especially in the attention he gave to preparing his ten fingers with guzheng finger picks before each performance.
After completing secondary school, Mah auditioned successfully to join a band of street performers, becoming a regular busker. He now plays three to five times a week at shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur and Melaka, where his music has garnered attention and appreciation.
Luo’s unwavering support and Mah’s perseverance illustrate how dedication to nurturing unique talents can lead to personal and professional fulfillment, even in the face of significant social and personal challenges.