NEWLY appointed Human Resources Minister Steven Sim recently took time off to visit a children’s home in Bukit Mertajam, where he is MP.
He visited Sinar Ceria Home in Alma, where he spent time with founder Pakiam.
In his Facebook post, he said “Madam Pakiam” prayed for him each time he visited.
“This time I asked for her blessing for me to carry out my new duties well, and though she prays for me in Tamil, I always feel fulfilled,” he said.
Pakiam is 81 years old and bedridden.
“She has always been a fighter. At the age of 61, when most people want to rest and retire, she decided to look after orphans and those from underprivileged families.
“She first had three children under her care, then 10, then 20 and now about 30,” he said.
In the last 20 years, Sim said Sinar Ceria Home has provided love and care to almost 1,000 children.
“She is not rich, but she is willing to sacrifice everything and provide love and care to these children. Madam Pakiam is like an angel to these children.
“Though she is old, she is not willing to leave these children. The home is now being run by her niece, Anita. Madam Pakiam’s children have also asked her to move in with them so they can care for her, but she is determined to stay here with the children,” Sim said.
In 2012, he said the Penang government also honoured Pakiam for her dedication.
“I told her she was a reflection of God’s love to these children. I also pledged RM40,000 to the home to help them with their operational costs,” he said. – The Vibes, December 19, 2023.
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