G Banupiyira and K Gunaseelan, her neighbours at Pangsapuri Permai in Sungai Besi here, were happy to oblige.

Three years later, they continue to look after the boy, having developed a relationship with him that has only strengthened over time.

Speaking with FMT, Shida acknowledged that her decision to leave Adam in the care of a non-Muslim family was initially questioned by some parties. But she gave the assurance that her son’s religious foundation remains strong.

For Banupiyira – fondly known as Jenny – and Gunaseelan, both 30, Adam feels like the “missing piece” of their family. The couple already have three daughters.

“He is not an outsider; he’s like our own son. Even if we were to have our own son someday, Adam will always be part of our family,” Jenny said.

They recalled that at one point, Adam was apart from them for six months. Gunaseelan shared that he often grew emotional when he thought of the boy, who calls him “Appa”.

“We really missed him. Adam is so affectionate; he always slept in my arms. When we were apart, my heart felt empty,” he said.

Jenny added that before meeting again, they worried that Adam might have forgotten them. “But as soon as he saw us, he immediately called out, ‘Amma!’

“He was only nine months old then, but he still remembered us. That moment was truly moving.”

The bond Adam shares with the couple extends to Shida and her two other children as well.

“They didn’t just accept Adam; they accepted me, too, like their own sister,” she said tearfully. “When I struggle or am unwell, they are here. Whenever I need help, they are the ones who help the most.”

Their story, which previously went viral on social media, touched the hearts of thousands of netizens. It is proof that love and kindness can transcend race, religion and skin colour.