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Becoming Hannah: A Personal Journey
Outlined here is clarity, simplicity, commitment and sacrifice of an exemplary Malaysian, a Christian who seeks to fight with her deep faith, impeccable character and profound courage to secure, by God’s strength and with much prayer, a better future for all Malaysians. There is great hope for Malaysia if many more Hannahs could be replicated in politics.
Dr. Daniel Ho
Senior Pastor, DUMC, Petaling Jaya
Hannah’s story grips you with its refreshing honesty. From finding God to rediscovering her confidence, to the miracle of her marriage proposal and her amazing journey into politics, it speaks about God. It fired me to pray for such a generation to rise up and rebuild our land! It will inspire you to always seek God’s best in the face of many “good” options; for it is in surrender to Him that the best will be given to us.
Dr. Philip Lyn
Senior Pastor, Skyline SIB, Kota Kinabalu
Hannah Yeoh Tseow Suan is the Speaker of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly and State Assemblyman for Subang Jaya, Selangor. Hannah won the N31 state seat in the General Elections 2008 as a DAP candidate at the age of 29. She was elected as the Speaker at the age of 34, making her the first woman and youngest Speaker in Malaysia. She obtained her Bachelor of Laws from University of Tasmania. She is married to Ramachandran M, an IT entrepreneur. They are now proud parents of two baby girls Shay Adora Ram and Kayleigh Imani Ram. The couple is passionate about nation-building and seeks to inspire Malaysians to play their respective parts in establishing a righteous nation free from corruption and racial discrimination.
Dr. Daniel Ho
Senior Pastor, DUMC, Petaling Jaya
Hannah’s story grips you with its refreshing honesty. From finding God to rediscovering her confidence, to the miracle of her marriage proposal and her amazing journey into politics, it speaks about God. It fired me to pray for such a generation to rise up and rebuild our land! It will inspire you to always seek God’s best in the face of many “good” options; for it is in surrender to Him that the best will be given to us.
Dr. Philip Lyn
Senior Pastor, Skyline SIB, Kota Kinabalu
Hannah Yeoh Tseow Suan is the Speaker of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly and State Assemblyman for Subang Jaya, Selangor. Hannah won the N31 state seat in the General Elections 2008 as a DAP candidate at the age of 29. She was elected as the Speaker at the age of 34, making her the first woman and youngest Speaker in Malaysia. She obtained her Bachelor of Laws from University of Tasmania. She is married to Ramachandran M, an IT entrepreneur. They are now proud parents of two baby girls Shay Adora Ram and Kayleigh Imani Ram. The couple is passionate about nation-building and seeks to inspire Malaysians to play their respective parts in establishing a righteous nation free from corruption and racial discrimination.
111 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
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December 21, 2019
Ini antara buku yang saya mula membacanya di awal tahun lalu namun, hingga Disember tahun ini baru berjaya menghabiskan buku ini. Sebab ambil masa terlalu lama, buku ini hilang. Hampir hujung tahun baru berjumpa semula dengan buku ini yang rupanya terperosok di bawah katil.
Bila saya kembali membaca buku ini, pada ketika itu juga saya kembali aktif di arena politik kepartian. Jadi, sangat mengena apa yang diceritakan buku ini dengan jiwa saya.
Buku ini pernha menjadi kontroversi pada tahun 2014 dulu ketika baru dikeluarkan disebabkan oleh dikatakan buku ini membawa beberapa 'dakyah' atau ajaran Kristian secara langsung. Malah, ketika berpeluag berjumpa dengan penulis buku ini pada Mac yang lalu, beliau sendiri bertanya kepada saya adakah buku beliau ini ok. Saya menjawab dengan yakin, ya sememangnya ok dan tiada masalah.
Buku ini menceritakan tentang perjalanan bagaimana seorang Hannah Yeoh menceburi bidang politik. Bermula secara ringkas latar belakang dan kisah beliau semasa kecil, satu demi satu bahagian dalam buku ini menceritakan tentang kisah hidup beliau, zaman belajar, berkahwin dan juga akhirnya bertanding sebagai ahli dewan undangan negeri di Selangaor dan kemudiannya dilantik menjadi Speaker Dun Selangor. Beliau merupakan speaker wanita pertama dan termuda di Malaysia.
Penceritaannya ringkas, satu persatu menggunakan bahasa yang mudah. Buku yang nipis tetapi cukup memberi gambaran bagaimana seorang yang tidak punya pengalaman dan tidak juga terlalu meminati politik akhirnya menjadi seorang ahli politik.
Ya, sememangnya beliau ialah seorang penganut agama Kristian yang sangat baik. Banyak sekali dinukilkan dalam buku ini kaitan hidup beliau dengan Tuhan, aktiviti beliau di gereja dan malah berkahwin juga kerana panduan dari Tuhan.
Saya tiada masalah kerana bagi saya buku ini bukanlah ada unsur mahu menyeru kepada agama Kristian pun, tetapi lebih kepada autobiografi ringkas yang sememangnya tidak dapat lari dari memperkatakan tentang agama dan bagaimana beragamanya beliau.
Saya suka bab bagaimana beliau menceritakan tentang cabaran menjadi seorang ahli politik wanita, dalam masa yang sama beliau adalah seorang isteri dan juga ibu. Kita semua tahu kepayahan dan cabarannya, tetapi tak ramai yang menulis dan sudi berkongsi tentangnya.
Buku ringkas yang baik untuk dibaca bagi mereka yang mungkin berminat untuk menjadi ahli politik atau juga yang bercita-cita untuk menjadi wanita pelakar sejarah.
Bila saya kembali membaca buku ini, pada ketika itu juga saya kembali aktif di arena politik kepartian. Jadi, sangat mengena apa yang diceritakan buku ini dengan jiwa saya.
Buku ini pernha menjadi kontroversi pada tahun 2014 dulu ketika baru dikeluarkan disebabkan oleh dikatakan buku ini membawa beberapa 'dakyah' atau ajaran Kristian secara langsung. Malah, ketika berpeluag berjumpa dengan penulis buku ini pada Mac yang lalu, beliau sendiri bertanya kepada saya adakah buku beliau ini ok. Saya menjawab dengan yakin, ya sememangnya ok dan tiada masalah.
Buku ini menceritakan tentang perjalanan bagaimana seorang Hannah Yeoh menceburi bidang politik. Bermula secara ringkas latar belakang dan kisah beliau semasa kecil, satu demi satu bahagian dalam buku ini menceritakan tentang kisah hidup beliau, zaman belajar, berkahwin dan juga akhirnya bertanding sebagai ahli dewan undangan negeri di Selangaor dan kemudiannya dilantik menjadi Speaker Dun Selangor. Beliau merupakan speaker wanita pertama dan termuda di Malaysia.
Penceritaannya ringkas, satu persatu menggunakan bahasa yang mudah. Buku yang nipis tetapi cukup memberi gambaran bagaimana seorang yang tidak punya pengalaman dan tidak juga terlalu meminati politik akhirnya menjadi seorang ahli politik.
Ya, sememangnya beliau ialah seorang penganut agama Kristian yang sangat baik. Banyak sekali dinukilkan dalam buku ini kaitan hidup beliau dengan Tuhan, aktiviti beliau di gereja dan malah berkahwin juga kerana panduan dari Tuhan.
Saya tiada masalah kerana bagi saya buku ini bukanlah ada unsur mahu menyeru kepada agama Kristian pun, tetapi lebih kepada autobiografi ringkas yang sememangnya tidak dapat lari dari memperkatakan tentang agama dan bagaimana beragamanya beliau.
Saya suka bab bagaimana beliau menceritakan tentang cabaran menjadi seorang ahli politik wanita, dalam masa yang sama beliau adalah seorang isteri dan juga ibu. Kita semua tahu kepayahan dan cabarannya, tetapi tak ramai yang menulis dan sudi berkongsi tentangnya.
Buku ringkas yang baik untuk dibaca bagi mereka yang mungkin berminat untuk menjadi ahli politik atau juga yang bercita-cita untuk menjadi wanita pelakar sejarah.
May 25, 2017
“Becoming Hannah” is an honest account of the personal journey of Hannah who is the current Speaker of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly. I do not think there are many politicians who are willing to make themselves vulnerable like the way Hannah did it, certainly not in Malaysia. It takes courage, strength and humility to be honest about one’s weaknesses.
I believe there is a reason for such vulnerability: to encourage everyone of us to be the next ‘Hannah’. Malaysian politics is the way it is today because many of us have always believed this lie: politics is dirty. Politics becomes dirty when we make two assumptions: it doesn't affect us and no one who has entered comes out clean. YB Hannah has proven these two assumptions wrong.
She has also proven that God can use ordinary people who are willing to surrender to the sovereign God to do mighty things. God doesn't look at one's ability but availability. May more people be willing to obey God in taking a stand in this nation because the safest place one can ever be is at the center of God's will. May her story not remain as just a nice story but one that will motivate everyone of us to actions. The nation is in dire need of people who will stand up to create positive change according to each of our own faith. May that be us, the readers.
I believe there is a reason for such vulnerability: to encourage everyone of us to be the next ‘Hannah’. Malaysian politics is the way it is today because many of us have always believed this lie: politics is dirty. Politics becomes dirty when we make two assumptions: it doesn't affect us and no one who has entered comes out clean. YB Hannah has proven these two assumptions wrong.
She has also proven that God can use ordinary people who are willing to surrender to the sovereign God to do mighty things. God doesn't look at one's ability but availability. May more people be willing to obey God in taking a stand in this nation because the safest place one can ever be is at the center of God's will. May her story not remain as just a nice story but one that will motivate everyone of us to actions. The nation is in dire need of people who will stand up to create positive change according to each of our own faith. May that be us, the readers.
October 21, 2016
An easy to read book because it is written in a conversational approach, reading as if Hannah is right in front of me telling me her story. Minus the detail explanation of some politics matters, it was enjoyable.
January 8, 2025
Becoming Hannah: A Personal Journey
By Hannah Yeoh
Published by SIRD
Goodread's Rating: 4.24/5
My Rating: 4/5
Hannah Yeoh’s Becoming Hannah is a deeply inspiring memoir chronicling her journey from an ordinary Subang Jaya girl to becoming Malaysia’s first female Speaker of the Selangor State Assembly. Raised in a Christian household, Yeoh shares how her faith became her compass, guiding her through life’s uncertainties and her unplanned foray into politics. Her story is a testament to the strength of spiritual values in shaping one’s integrity and leadership. As someone who grew up and schooled next to Masjid Darul Ehsan, I find her steadfastness and humility deeply admirable and relatable in a world where faith is often overshadowed by ambition.
The book delves into Yeoh’s transformation, her navigation of Malaysia’s political terrain, and her rise to historic leadership—all while holding firm to her principles. It is not merely a political narrative but a deeply personal account of conviction and resilience. Having read the Bible and treasured a blue leather-bound copy of the Psalms I purchased in the Philippines, I can affirm that reading sacred texts expands the heart without altering one’s beliefs. My fascination with Jesus or Isa AS only deepened my respect for his virtues. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that I married a man from a country where Jesus sought refuge, a man who studied comparative religion to truly appreciate such profound connections.
Yeoh’s reflections are steeped in gratitude and the recognition of divine guidance. She sees God’s hand in every decision, every challenge, and every triumph, offering a perspective sorely needed in today’s cynical political climate. Her memoir reminds us that leadership can be driven by faith, service, and compassion rather than greed or opportunism. Yeoh’s humility and authenticity set her apart, showing how one can stay true to their beliefs while navigating the murky waters of politics.
The controversy surrounding this memoir, with over 150 police reports filed against it, is bewildering. It is neither evangelistic nor divisive; it is a personal narrative of faith and purpose. Yeoh’s example makes me wish for more Muslim leaders who embody Islam’s values with similar grace and humility. Instead of using religion to preach fear or exclude those of other faiths, leaders should exemplify the beauty through kindness, integrity, and the courage to embrace diversity. Becoming Hannah is a memoir that deserves to be read for the hope it offers and the questions it raises about the kind of leadership we aspire to see.
By Hannah Yeoh
Published by SIRD
Goodread's Rating: 4.24/5
My Rating: 4/5
Hannah Yeoh’s Becoming Hannah is a deeply inspiring memoir chronicling her journey from an ordinary Subang Jaya girl to becoming Malaysia’s first female Speaker of the Selangor State Assembly. Raised in a Christian household, Yeoh shares how her faith became her compass, guiding her through life’s uncertainties and her unplanned foray into politics. Her story is a testament to the strength of spiritual values in shaping one’s integrity and leadership. As someone who grew up and schooled next to Masjid Darul Ehsan, I find her steadfastness and humility deeply admirable and relatable in a world where faith is often overshadowed by ambition.
The book delves into Yeoh’s transformation, her navigation of Malaysia’s political terrain, and her rise to historic leadership—all while holding firm to her principles. It is not merely a political narrative but a deeply personal account of conviction and resilience. Having read the Bible and treasured a blue leather-bound copy of the Psalms I purchased in the Philippines, I can affirm that reading sacred texts expands the heart without altering one’s beliefs. My fascination with Jesus or Isa AS only deepened my respect for his virtues. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that I married a man from a country where Jesus sought refuge, a man who studied comparative religion to truly appreciate such profound connections.
Yeoh’s reflections are steeped in gratitude and the recognition of divine guidance. She sees God’s hand in every decision, every challenge, and every triumph, offering a perspective sorely needed in today’s cynical political climate. Her memoir reminds us that leadership can be driven by faith, service, and compassion rather than greed or opportunism. Yeoh’s humility and authenticity set her apart, showing how one can stay true to their beliefs while navigating the murky waters of politics.
The controversy surrounding this memoir, with over 150 police reports filed against it, is bewildering. It is neither evangelistic nor divisive; it is a personal narrative of faith and purpose. Yeoh’s example makes me wish for more Muslim leaders who embody Islam’s values with similar grace and humility. Instead of using religion to preach fear or exclude those of other faiths, leaders should exemplify the beauty through kindness, integrity, and the courage to embrace diversity. Becoming Hannah is a memoir that deserves to be read for the hope it offers and the questions it raises about the kind of leadership we aspire to see.
January 9, 2020
Clear and honest sharing about her journey to being a politician. Hannah writes in a humble manner that invites readers to come alongside her and see the world from her point of view. Her journey of ups and downs shows us that she is very human, like many of us. I appreciate her honesty and frankness on the things that she learned, observed, and experienced. She does not shy away from stating her Christian faith and beliefs. That is good. Everyone has a personal conviction about something. I like the way she titles the book "Becoming Hannah," reminding us all that we too ought to try our utmost to be the best versions of ourselves.
This book is not only about the personal journeys of the author. It is also an inspiration to grow in dependence to God; and to learn to serve the community, even among people who don't like us. Being a leader in any society is all about service. Hannah has shown us what that means and the sacrifices that entails. She ends the book by encouraging Malaysians to give their homeland a chance. After all, even if the present generation may not directly benefit, at least, by planting a seed of hope, future generations of all ethnicities can benefit.
This book is not only about the personal journeys of the author. It is also an inspiration to grow in dependence to God; and to learn to serve the community, even among people who don't like us. Being a leader in any society is all about service. Hannah has shown us what that means and the sacrifices that entails. She ends the book by encouraging Malaysians to give their homeland a chance. After all, even if the present generation may not directly benefit, at least, by planting a seed of hope, future generations of all ethnicities can benefit.
December 6, 2025
How does a young Malaysian woman, with no political background, no famous surname, and no initial interest in politics, become the first female Speaker of a state assembly? Hannah Yeoh’s autobiography, "Becoming Hannah," answers this question with honesty, humility, and a faith-driven narrative that is as compelling as it is inspiring.
In Becoming Hannah: A Personal Journey, Hannah Yeoh tells the remarkable story of how she transformed from an ordinary suburban girl into a groundbreaking political figure in Malaysian history. Published in 2014, this memoir is more than just a personal chronicle—it is a courageous testimony of identity, calling, and service in a system where women, especially young Christian women, rarely rise to positions of power.
The book is divided into ten chapters, each tracing a different phase in Hannah’s life—from her childhood in Subang Jaya, her time studying law in Australia, her reluctant return home, to the dramatic events that led her into politics during the 2008 Malaysian general elections. It culminates in her appointment as Speaker of the Selangor State Assembly at the age of 34—the youngest and first woman ever to hold that position.
What makes this memoir deeply engaging is not just the story it tells, but the way Hannah tells it. Her voice is conversational yet firm, reflective yet purposeful. She writes not with self-aggrandizement, but with transparency about her struggles with insecurity, criticism, and doubt. She makes it clear that her rise to leadership was not her ambition, but God’s calling—a recurring theme throughout the book.
Faith is the central axis of Becoming Hannah. Her Christian beliefs are not an afterthought but the foundation of every decision she makes. Whether it is turning down lucrative legal opportunities in Australia, stepping into a political campaign with no experience, or navigating toxic partisanship in Malaysian politics, Hannah presents each step as obedience to God’s prompting. Some may find this overt religious framing unexpected in a political memoir, but for Hannah, there is no divide between her spiritual and public life. That integrity, whether you share her faith or not, commands respect.
Another strength of the book is its insight into the inner workings of Malaysian politics—particularly the barriers young, honest, and idealistic politicians face in a deeply entrenched system. Hannah describes how she and her team campaigned with almost no funds, relying on grassroots volunteers and prayer rather than patronage and power. She outlines the sexism, racism, and cynicism she encountered both within political parties and from the public, and how she had to quickly grow into her responsibilities as a public servant. Yet even in the face of institutional and cultural obstacles, she maintains a tone of hope and resolve.
In terms of narrative, the pacing is brisk and clear. The writing is accessible, and the chapters are structured to reflect not only chronology but emotional and spiritual growth. Particularly moving is her account of her courtship and marriage to Ramachandran Muniandy, a Christian of Indian descent. Her marriage to Ramachandran reflects her conviction that faith should transcend ethnic boundaries—a quiet but significant stance in a society where race often defines identity.
One of the book’s most powerful sections is her reflection on motherhood while in office. She challenges the notion that women must choose between career and family, and instead urges for a reimagining of public service that is family-friendly and people-focused. Her commitment to raising her daughters while holding one of the most demanding positions in the state underscores the book’s broader message: leadership should reflect life, not demand its negation.
Critics of Becoming Hannah may argue that the book lacks political analysis or depth in policy discussion. But that is not the book’s purpose. This is not a textbook on governance or a manifesto. It is a personal story—an invitation to understand what drives one woman to serve with conscience, to lead with integrity, and to remain grounded in her values amidst chaos.
Ultimately, Becoming Hannah is a rare and necessary voice in Malaysian literature. It is a book for aspiring leaders, young women, Christians in public life, and anyone who believes that politics can still be a platform for principled change. It breaks the mold of what a politician’s memoir is supposed to be, offering instead a deeply personal journey marked by faith, courage, and grace.
This is not just the story of Hannah Yeoh. It is the story of possibility in Malaysia. And it is a call to all of us to become who we are meant to be—not through ambition or strategy, but through obedience, purpose, and love.
In Becoming Hannah: A Personal Journey, Hannah Yeoh tells the remarkable story of how she transformed from an ordinary suburban girl into a groundbreaking political figure in Malaysian history. Published in 2014, this memoir is more than just a personal chronicle—it is a courageous testimony of identity, calling, and service in a system where women, especially young Christian women, rarely rise to positions of power.
The book is divided into ten chapters, each tracing a different phase in Hannah’s life—from her childhood in Subang Jaya, her time studying law in Australia, her reluctant return home, to the dramatic events that led her into politics during the 2008 Malaysian general elections. It culminates in her appointment as Speaker of the Selangor State Assembly at the age of 34—the youngest and first woman ever to hold that position.
What makes this memoir deeply engaging is not just the story it tells, but the way Hannah tells it. Her voice is conversational yet firm, reflective yet purposeful. She writes not with self-aggrandizement, but with transparency about her struggles with insecurity, criticism, and doubt. She makes it clear that her rise to leadership was not her ambition, but God’s calling—a recurring theme throughout the book.
Faith is the central axis of Becoming Hannah. Her Christian beliefs are not an afterthought but the foundation of every decision she makes. Whether it is turning down lucrative legal opportunities in Australia, stepping into a political campaign with no experience, or navigating toxic partisanship in Malaysian politics, Hannah presents each step as obedience to God’s prompting. Some may find this overt religious framing unexpected in a political memoir, but for Hannah, there is no divide between her spiritual and public life. That integrity, whether you share her faith or not, commands respect.
Another strength of the book is its insight into the inner workings of Malaysian politics—particularly the barriers young, honest, and idealistic politicians face in a deeply entrenched system. Hannah describes how she and her team campaigned with almost no funds, relying on grassroots volunteers and prayer rather than patronage and power. She outlines the sexism, racism, and cynicism she encountered both within political parties and from the public, and how she had to quickly grow into her responsibilities as a public servant. Yet even in the face of institutional and cultural obstacles, she maintains a tone of hope and resolve.
In terms of narrative, the pacing is brisk and clear. The writing is accessible, and the chapters are structured to reflect not only chronology but emotional and spiritual growth. Particularly moving is her account of her courtship and marriage to Ramachandran Muniandy, a Christian of Indian descent. Her marriage to Ramachandran reflects her conviction that faith should transcend ethnic boundaries—a quiet but significant stance in a society where race often defines identity.
One of the book’s most powerful sections is her reflection on motherhood while in office. She challenges the notion that women must choose between career and family, and instead urges for a reimagining of public service that is family-friendly and people-focused. Her commitment to raising her daughters while holding one of the most demanding positions in the state underscores the book’s broader message: leadership should reflect life, not demand its negation.
Critics of Becoming Hannah may argue that the book lacks political analysis or depth in policy discussion. But that is not the book’s purpose. This is not a textbook on governance or a manifesto. It is a personal story—an invitation to understand what drives one woman to serve with conscience, to lead with integrity, and to remain grounded in her values amidst chaos.
Ultimately, Becoming Hannah is a rare and necessary voice in Malaysian literature. It is a book for aspiring leaders, young women, Christians in public life, and anyone who believes that politics can still be a platform for principled change. It breaks the mold of what a politician’s memoir is supposed to be, offering instead a deeply personal journey marked by faith, courage, and grace.
This is not just the story of Hannah Yeoh. It is the story of possibility in Malaysia. And it is a call to all of us to become who we are meant to be—not through ambition or strategy, but through obedience, purpose, and love.
May 18, 2018
This book has been published quite a while ago and only came to my attention after a Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) senior lecturer scrutinised Hannah Yeoh for allegedly Christian “proselytising” other religions. Hannah earned my apolitical respect to her instantly through a video of her soft yet powerful and moving message to her successor, Michelle Ng at Subang Jaya before GE14. So I was intrigued by it when I chanced upon this book at the MCCHR Community Library. Usually an autobiography is not my thing, but just like my wise man has encouraged, we only live one life but reading makes us live a thousand of others’ lives.
Hannah Yeoh describes her life to rose and her road to politics to be spiritual gift of prophecies. She started just like any one of us who felt greener pastures overseas, who envied friends who had stayed abroad and were enjoying quality lifestyles, and who have always been complaining everything about our country, the bad traffic, the safety and the inflation. Without walking the talk, at the very least to register as a voter, but always wishing things were better makes us a defeated complainer. Through her words, she has captured what had long been in everyone’s hearts. Life doesn’t always come out the way we plan it, even it was to tumble her newly wedded life, Hannah seized the opportunity and walked the talk. At that time, she was inspired by Tony Phua who gave up prestige and money just to come back and serve Malaysia. Not only two of them, but Yeo Bee Yin, Michelle Ng, and many other unsung warriors who chose to come back to homeland for good are duly respectful. They now set the benchmark high that politics need good people to make our country better. They are the pioneers to open people’s eyes to the possibility of change. In her book, I read no politics nor authorities but miracles of the people power and immensely humbled by humanity.
This book, albeit contains a fair bit of prophecies and Christian quotes, is an easy and inspiring read. It might be hard for a non-Christian like me to comprehend the prophecies, but I tried to read it with an open mind. I see reading it like reading a big sister’s sharing of her spiritual journey to self-discovery and life stories for her past 30 years in 110 pages. I was also reminded that my ex-supervisor, now mentor, whom she and her husband are also devoted Christians, shared with me their personal encounter for receiving prophecies from their God during a big decision making process in their family. For their defence, they are just sharing what they believe, just like us would share about things we love, in this case, it’s their God. I imagined that if I were to write an account of my life for the past 30 years, it might be fairly melodrama too. Simply, everyone has a story to tell. Paint yours now, all things are possible.
Hannah Yeoh describes her life to rose and her road to politics to be spiritual gift of prophecies. She started just like any one of us who felt greener pastures overseas, who envied friends who had stayed abroad and were enjoying quality lifestyles, and who have always been complaining everything about our country, the bad traffic, the safety and the inflation. Without walking the talk, at the very least to register as a voter, but always wishing things were better makes us a defeated complainer. Through her words, she has captured what had long been in everyone’s hearts. Life doesn’t always come out the way we plan it, even it was to tumble her newly wedded life, Hannah seized the opportunity and walked the talk. At that time, she was inspired by Tony Phua who gave up prestige and money just to come back and serve Malaysia. Not only two of them, but Yeo Bee Yin, Michelle Ng, and many other unsung warriors who chose to come back to homeland for good are duly respectful. They now set the benchmark high that politics need good people to make our country better. They are the pioneers to open people’s eyes to the possibility of change. In her book, I read no politics nor authorities but miracles of the people power and immensely humbled by humanity.
This book, albeit contains a fair bit of prophecies and Christian quotes, is an easy and inspiring read. It might be hard for a non-Christian like me to comprehend the prophecies, but I tried to read it with an open mind. I see reading it like reading a big sister’s sharing of her spiritual journey to self-discovery and life stories for her past 30 years in 110 pages. I was also reminded that my ex-supervisor, now mentor, whom she and her husband are also devoted Christians, shared with me their personal encounter for receiving prophecies from their God during a big decision making process in their family. For their defence, they are just sharing what they believe, just like us would share about things we love, in this case, it’s their God. I imagined that if I were to write an account of my life for the past 30 years, it might be fairly melodrama too. Simply, everyone has a story to tell. Paint yours now, all things are possible.
August 3, 2019
A book I finished so quickly and moved onto something else that I’d completely forgotten to add it to my book list until coming across it on Goodreads many months later! Essentially charting the rise of Hannah Yeoh, a girl born to a pretty much non-political family who gets drawn to the cause of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) in Malaysia and later goes on to stand as party member in the general elections. As a member of the public whose constituency Hannah subsequently moved to 2 elections later when she chose to contest a Parliamentary instead of a State seat, this was an interesting read and made her much more accessible as a person instead of simply “the politician looking after my area”.
The book itself is written in an affable, easy to understand and conversational format, and large chunks are devoted towards the time she spends in church as well as her growing relationship with her husband Ram. Her identity as a staunch Christian shines through the pages, independently of what she is describing at the time, and the reader really gets the impression that religion drives pretty much everything in her life. As someone who is not particularly religious I don’t necessarily relate to that feeling / behaviour, but I accept that there are people out there for which religion plays a central role in their lives and I respect her for that. The book also agrees well with the Hannah that I know from brief interactions (she’s frequently seen on walkabouts in the constituency for instance), a true MP for the people. 4.5 stars, as it didn’t really blow me away the way 5 star books did, but one that I would definitely recommend!
The book itself is written in an affable, easy to understand and conversational format, and large chunks are devoted towards the time she spends in church as well as her growing relationship with her husband Ram. Her identity as a staunch Christian shines through the pages, independently of what she is describing at the time, and the reader really gets the impression that religion drives pretty much everything in her life. As someone who is not particularly religious I don’t necessarily relate to that feeling / behaviour, but I accept that there are people out there for which religion plays a central role in their lives and I respect her for that. The book also agrees well with the Hannah that I know from brief interactions (she’s frequently seen on walkabouts in the constituency for instance), a true MP for the people. 4.5 stars, as it didn’t really blow me away the way 5 star books did, but one that I would definitely recommend!
June 12, 2018
A woman politician who truly honors God in every aspect of her life including her political career. She is the first woman speaker in Malaysia!
Her story being elected as a YB when she was new as green in politics and did not have enough money for her campaign reminded me of Samuel anointed David to be the king of Israel replacing Saul when at that time David know nothing about what it takes to be the ruler of the people of God.
What I learnt most from this book is when God says you are ready, it means you are truly ready although you don't see it yourself. Make use of every circumstance and situation of your life because they are essential to equip you to face your future and they are part of what God will divinely orchestrated you to be in future.
I would like to congratulate the author for keep giving glory and credit to God in every of her achievement. Furthermore, I would like to suggest the author to make the updated version of this book especially after the 14th General Election in Malaysia when Malaysia is liberated from the decades of old corrupted government to a new government.
Her story being elected as a YB when she was new as green in politics and did not have enough money for her campaign reminded me of Samuel anointed David to be the king of Israel replacing Saul when at that time David know nothing about what it takes to be the ruler of the people of God.
What I learnt most from this book is when God says you are ready, it means you are truly ready although you don't see it yourself. Make use of every circumstance and situation of your life because they are essential to equip you to face your future and they are part of what God will divinely orchestrated you to be in future.
I would like to congratulate the author for keep giving glory and credit to God in every of her achievement. Furthermore, I would like to suggest the author to make the updated version of this book especially after the 14th General Election in Malaysia when Malaysia is liberated from the decades of old corrupted government to a new government.
December 18, 2023
Very easy read. Finished within a day. Hannah shared her personal and career journey - how she ended up in politics while upholding her Christian faith. I really enjoyed her being so vulnerable stating her personal struggles especially as a public figure - is really hard to come by.
The books quoted quite a number biblical reference. However, it will benefit non Christian too as she documented her thought process on how she uphold her values to glorify God by being ethical while being a politician in Malaysia (which is known to be “dirty” with lots of temptations on power and corruption).
My favourite quote from the book “I do not measure my self-worth as a politician by votes or by how popular I am with constituents. I measure my self-worth by the fact that I am a child of God.”
In the book, she encourages other readers to apply the same principles that gotten her through in her own career in M’sia politics and her achievements (youngest and first woman to be speaker of Selangor assemblymen) which is “Trust God and obey Him. With Him, everything is possible”.
The books quoted quite a number biblical reference. However, it will benefit non Christian too as she documented her thought process on how she uphold her values to glorify God by being ethical while being a politician in Malaysia (which is known to be “dirty” with lots of temptations on power and corruption).
My favourite quote from the book “I do not measure my self-worth as a politician by votes or by how popular I am with constituents. I measure my self-worth by the fact that I am a child of God.”
In the book, she encourages other readers to apply the same principles that gotten her through in her own career in M’sia politics and her achievements (youngest and first woman to be speaker of Selangor assemblymen) which is “Trust God and obey Him. With Him, everything is possible”.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2018
I had the chance to be involved in the 2008 election back when I was still working with the Selangor Government. YB Hannah win was unprecedented and suddenly everyone was talking about this young, humble and female politician. At that time, we had a sense that the winds of change are finally happening in this country and it gives hope to the younger generation (including me) that the voices of our generation are being heard.
As a memoir, this book is relatively short and to the point. What is interesting is that it actually give insight into YB Hannah beliefs and her rise to the forefront of the political arena. She is indeed an inspiration for the petite, female law graduates out there (including me..haha) that each of us can actually change the world.
As a memoir, this book is relatively short and to the point. What is interesting is that it actually give insight into YB Hannah beliefs and her rise to the forefront of the political arena. She is indeed an inspiration for the petite, female law graduates out there (including me..haha) that each of us can actually change the world.
January 12, 2023
This is a very easy straightforward book to read. The language is simple, perhaps to appeal to a broader audience. Personally I wish she had delved more into pressing issues of this country but then again she did say that there have been many books that already explore this and hers is just about her own journey. I do wonder if it might have been a better book if it was written after she retired from politics for more content. Overall, it's an inspiring book to read about someone who is driven by her faith to fight the good fight for her country.
February 1, 2018
I wish I had read her book earlier but I would like to believe it came at the right time. This book is great inspiration, guide and testimony for all in the path of wanting to make a difference . An amazing book that reveals her journey as a woman of faith , her courage to be vulnerable and her rise to stay true to vocation , finding the joy of serving , to her vocation , amidst the noise that can tell you otherwise.
Thank you, Hannah.
Thank you, Hannah.
April 29, 2019
A candid autobiography of how God can move in the life of someone who is open and committed. Hannah's Yeoh's unlikely journey in becoming State Assemblymen for Subang Jaya is told with humility, thankfulness and much Godly wisdom. I wish I was only as brave as her... perhaps we can all learn something from her confidence and openness with God.
May 9, 2018
I knew her personally from my church in Kingdomcity, and she is one amazing woman
September 24, 2018
A book tailored for Malaysians seeking purpose in life through real life events. This book is written straight from the heart as one can tell from the many speeches she has given.
January 3, 2019
A story about how Hannah become a politician at God’s Will.
February 14, 2019
I read it all in one sitting it was so good and uplifting. Such a remarkable person and amazing God-glorifying story. Can't wait to see what else she does to serve her God and country!
March 2, 2019
An excellent read and inspiring, to boot! Highly recommended when one is searching for answers within!
November 21, 2021
Inspiring!
June 16, 2022
This is definitely a very eye-opening book. The moment i started reading, I couldn't put the book down. Truly enjoyed this short read.
March 15, 2025
about prophecy
October 17, 2025
I enjoyed reading this memoir about Hannah, a Malaysian politician who is a Christian. It was very interesting to read as I have now lived here in Malaysia for 12 years.
February 20, 2023
Inspiring. Eye opening. A call to be unafraid and to challenge the stereotypes.
December 1, 2025
Brought this book out of the curiosity over the controversy by certain political quarters.
It is certainly being blown out of proportion. To me it is an interesting read, particularly because it give us (muslim majority) an inkling of the thought and faith of a person from a different perspective.
I think most importantly it is an honest and refreshing take from a fellow citizen whom have partaken the path less traversed. I know almost nothing about YB Hannah Yeoh before reading this, and now I am a fan. I feel her frustration and joy, her aspiration and this love for our nation. I applaud for her achievement for our state and genuinely am thankful for what she have done for our nation Malaysia - regardless whether her action has an ultimate negative constitutive benefits or a positive one.
It is certainly being blown out of proportion. To me it is an interesting read, particularly because it give us (muslim majority) an inkling of the thought and faith of a person from a different perspective.
I think most importantly it is an honest and refreshing take from a fellow citizen whom have partaken the path less traversed. I know almost nothing about YB Hannah Yeoh before reading this, and now I am a fan. I feel her frustration and joy, her aspiration and this love for our nation. I applaud for her achievement for our state and genuinely am thankful for what she have done for our nation Malaysia - regardless whether her action has an ultimate negative constitutive benefits or a positive one.
July 11, 2017
Inspiring. Just took a day to finish reading this book.
January 22, 2015
A very inspiring book indeed, I'm amazed at how big the faith and obedience we have to put in God to allow His will to be done. It is usually done out of our comfortable zones. It inspired me to stand-up, stand-out, and speak-out for God. Most importantly, we act according to His will, not out of our own desires.
December 23, 2015
Yeoh, H. (2014). Becoming Hannah: A personal journey. Petaling Jaya, Malaysia: Strategic Information and Research Development Centre.
A deeply personal and sincere recount of how God can turn good to great. She's a pretty good writer too, mind, expressing her emotions with accessible analogies and metaphors.
A deeply personal and sincere recount of how God can turn good to great. She's a pretty good writer too, mind, expressing her emotions with accessible analogies and metaphors.
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