SEREMBAN - While some young people her age are still deciding on their career paths, Anis Maisarah Fauzi has no qualms about working as a cleaner.
In fact, the 24-year-old has never felt ashamed of her job. Instead, she takes pride in wearing her work uniform.
She said she began working as a cleaner at the Home Ministry building in Kedah at the age of 18 after completing secondary school.
"I have always been interested in this field. Besides, I am not particularly good academically and did not pursue further studies anywhere.
"I do not mind what job I do, as long as it is halal and pays enough for me to support myself," she told Sinar.
The eldest of seven siblings said she and her colleagues begin work as early as 7.30am and finish at 4.30pm.
She explained that two cleaners are assigned to each floor of the building, where their duties include cleaning toilets, corridors and office spaces.
"When I do cleaning work, I feel happy and at ease. I also feel satisfied when I see everything clean," she said.
Anis Maisarah, who is single, said she was the youngest among her colleagues.
However, she said this had never made her feel inferior, and she had no plans to look for another job for the time being.
"People from outside have asked me why I did not further my studies, saying that I am still young.
"But I told them I am happy with my current job, the salary is sufficient, and the working environment is enjoyable," she said.
She added that cleaning was an honourable profession and hoped her work would become a source of reward in the hereafter.
Meanwhile, Anis Maisarah said she never expected a photo of herself in her work uniform, shared on her Threads account with the caption, 'I always feel beautiful whenever I wear my work uniform, even as a cleaner', to receive so many different reactions.
"I actually shared the photo spontaneously, but I did not expect so many people to comment and leave positive messages.
"Since then, I have seen many other cleaners coming forward to share their own photos too," she said.
To supplement her income, Anis Maisarah also works part-time as a TikTok marketing or affiliate agent.
She also urged young people not to be too selective about jobs, but to seize available opportunities to earn a living as long as the work is halal.
"In my view, we should not be too picky. Just take the job opportunities available to us.
"Given the current cost of living and economic situation, I do not mind what job I do, as long as the income is halal and the salary is decent," she said.