Missclyen Roland, five years old, started kindergarten at SK Sungai Tisang school in Bintulu, Sarawak on 12/1, joining 24 other classmates. This marked a significant milestone, opening a new chapter for the girl with a unique appearance. Her first day was not smooth; some children ran out of the classroom in fear, while others laughed at her. However, the situation improved on the second day as a few students became curious, began to get to know her, and befriended her.

Missclyen (right), who suffers from congenital generalized hypertrichosis, attends school for the first time. Photo: The Star

Missclyen suffers from congenital generalized hypertrichosis, commonly known as "werewolf syndrome." This is a rare medical condition characterized by excessive hair growth across the body. According to medical literature and statistics from JAMA Dermatology and Guinness World Records, only about 50 cases of this syndrome have been recorded worldwide since medieval times. Broadening the scope to all forms of congenital generalized hypertrichosis, the number of officially documented cases in medical history remains fewer than 100.

The girl's unique appearance caused her family, particularly her father Roland Jimbai, 49, much discrimination and concern about her youngest daughter's ability to integrate socially. Despite the challenging start, Missclyen showed enthusiasm for school. Her biggest motivation was attending with her older siblings, who also study there. Their presence created a sense of security, helping her adapt more easily. "I believe that as she grows up, she will always be treated with respect," her father, a welder, said emotionally, expressing hope for a brighter future for his child.

Missclyen's life changed three years ago. During a visit to Sarawak in 9/2023, the then Malaysian King Abdullah Ahmad Shah and Queen Tunku Azizah stopped to speak with the girl. Moved by her situation, the Queen expressed a desire to adopt Missclyen, calling her "a child from heaven."

The Royal Family pledged to cover all tuition and medical expenses for Missclyen. "I hope this support helps alleviate the burden on the family in raising her," the Queen wrote in a letter sent to the family on 10/10/2023.

Source: Straitimes