From Childhood Passion to Humanitarian Purpose: Sabah Woman Sells Pokémon Cards for Gaza Mission
KUALA LUMPUR: Letting go of cherished possessions is rarely easy, especially when they hold deep personal memories. For Sabah-born homemaker Ayesha Assilla Watuna, however, parting with her prized Pokémon card collection became a meaningful act of solidarity with the people of Gaza.
The 30-year-old mother of three decided to sell her rare and limited-edition Pokémon trading cards to raise funds for the Global Sumud Flotilla, a humanitarian mission expected to sail to Gaza early next year.
Ayesha said her decision was inspired by the growing number of Malaysian women who have stepped forward, making personal sacrifices to support humanitarian causes in Palestine.
“I want to contribute something meaningful to society. Knowing that I can help others makes the sacrifice worthwhile,” she said.
With a collection exceeding 3,000 cards, many of which are rare and difficult to obtain, Ayesha began selling her cards online and at a weekend night market stall in Taman Melawati in late October. The effort has so far raised more than RM15,000.
She pledged that every ringgit raised would go directly to the Global Sumud Flotilla fund, even if it means selling cards she once struggled to part with.
Among her collection are Japan-exclusive Pokémon editions, acquired through a friend. Ayesha explained that Pokémon cards, much like precious metals, fluctuate in value depending on market demand and condition.
Collectors often rely on specialised mobile applications to track card prices, with sealed cards commanding significantly higher values over time.
What began as a therapeutic hobby soon became a platform for social impact. Ayesha said she hopes her story will one day inspire her children.
“I want them to know that their mother once sold her Pokémon cards to help people in need,” she said.