January 27, 2026
KLANG – Eighteen years ago, a medical negligence case at the Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital (HTAR) in Klang captured the nation’s attention when infant Lai Yok Shan lost her left forearm.
Yok Shan was only five weeks old when her story was carried in newspapers across the country.
Today, that baby has grown into a resilient 18-year-old young woman.
Currently pursuing a Diploma in Illustration at The One Academy, she dreams of becoming a freelance artist and has fully mastered the art of independent living.
Over the last 18 years, she has developed techniques to perform daily tasks—from opening bottles and cooking to applying makeup and sewing—entirely with one hand.
Earlier this year, she attempted to use a prosthetic limb but ultimately decided against it.
“It felt too heavy, and the length wasn’t right, making movement even more difficult.
“I feel more comfortable and at peace without it,” she said.
However, she remains open to future technologies, such as lightweight 3D-printed models.
In an interview with Sin Chew Daily, Yok Shan revealed that her childhood was not without its shadows.
She recalled a period in primary school when younger male students mocked her appearance, calling her a “monster.”
This led to a deep struggle with anxiety.
t the time, she kept these painful experiences to herself, choosing to cry in solitude.
“During those dark times, drawing and music were my greatest escapes,” she said.
Her childhood passions for drawing and calligraphy once earned her the title of “Award Queen” during her primary school days.
She has since found a new sanctuary in the world of Anime and Cosplay, where she blends her artistic skills with storytelling and costume design.
Now, those same interests are guiding her to pursue a career in art, as she dreams of becoming a freelance creator.
When discussing her love for Anime and Cosplay, Yok Shan’s eyes light up.
She handles every detail of her creations personally—from makeup and wig styling to sewing intricate costumes.
She recently completed a full costume in under two weeks, becoming one of the first in the local scene to portray that specific character.
For Yok Shan, Cosplay is more than a hobby; it is a powerful form of self-expression that allows her to showcase her confidence despite her physical challenges.
Klang social worker Peter Tan, who fought for justice for the Lai family 18 years ago, expressed immense pride in her growth.
“The most important thing isn’t her achievements, but that she is happy and living well,” he said.
One of Yok Shan’s art pieces (L); prizes and certificates from her school after she delivered excellent SPM results. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY
Yok Shan’s father, Lai Kien Khee, spoke with quiet but profound affection.
“As a father, I don’t need her to achieve great greatness. I just want her to be able to take care of herself and live independently. Seeing her cook and manage her daily life is enough for me.”
Recalling her childhood, he admitted he was worried for Yok Shan.
He feared that her physical condition would lead to low self-esteem and that she would face unavoidable challenges as she grew.
Reflecting on the unfortunate incident at her birth, he spoke with a sense of closure: “Let the past be the past. I only hope that nothing like this ever happens again. We cannot fully predict the future, but as long as our child grows up healthy and happy, that is the greatest satisfaction a parent can have.”
In 2007, when Yok Shan was just 17 days old, a suspected case of medical negligence occurred.
A trainee doctor allegedly botched an IV drip, puncturing a blood vessel in her elbow.
This led to a bacterial infection and tissue necrosis, resulting in the surgical amputation of her left forearm to save her life.
Dissatisfied with the Ministry of Health’s initial offer of RM60,000, the family filed a RM2 million lawsuit in November 2007. The case was eventually settled out of court after a three-year legal battle.
Social worker Peter Tan shows Yok Shan her story published in a newspaper 18 years ago. PHOTO: SIN CHEW DAILY