BUKIT MERTAJAM – On the brink of losing all hope, an unemployed father decided to hoist the white flag outside his wooden village house in Kg Cherok To’kun here yesterday, after depleting all his financial resources last month.
The action of Abdul Aziz Junid, 54, who used to mow lawns for a living, managed to grab the attention of neighbours, mosque committee members, and the office of local MP Steven Sim, who came to provide him with daily necessities.
When met by The Vibes, the 54-year-old said that he had to be extremely thrifty with the family’s daily expenses to support his wife, who is seven-months pregnant, and their two children who are 12 and 6 years old.
“I am at my wit’s end when thinking about our financial problems, but I’m sure there will be sustenance for us.
“Since the beginning of this month, I had only three lawnmowing jobs, with an average payment of between RM30 and RM120 for one job,” he said at his dilapidated house that he inherited from his parents.
“Sometimes, I feel sad because I feel like I’ve failed as a father, but I’m sure God will help us,” he added.
Aziz was on the verge of desperation, not knowing what to do, when he heard about the #benderaputih campaign that started recently to encourage poverty-stricken folk in need of urgent help during the pandemic and lockdown to make their appeal known.
Aziz said that, to prepare for the birth of his baby due in August, he has kept his children’s old baby items, and has also received donations of second-hand baby items from neighbours and relatives.
He is also thankful that his wife and children have never complained about the things they lack.
Aziz said that he removed the white flag from the front of his house today as he has received sufficient food once the neighbourhood noticed his sign for help.
He advised anyone in need of assistance to only hoist the white flag as a last resort.
“Today, I have lowered the white flag because I know there are more people facing more difficulties than me.
“I am very grateful for the help I received, and only God will surely repay and reward the good deeds of all donors,” he said tearfully. – The Vibes, June 30, 2021
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