JOHOR BARU – A stay-at-home mother of three facing a food shortage and dwindling savings has raised a white flag in front of her unit at the Desa Mutiara People’s Housing Project (PPR) here.
Nur Husna Mohd Room, 35, told Bernama that she has no choice but to publicly seek help as she is worried about the fate of her kids.
Her husband is in Melaka looking for a job, and does not have the funds to return home.
Nur Husna said being away from her husband for months has been emotionally difficult, with things made worse by him losing his job after the factory he worked at closed.
“Initially, I felt ashamed about raising the flag, but decided to do it anyway after getting support from my neighbours. I had to set aside my own feelings for the sake of my children.
“I’m grateful to receive help from my block leader and neighbours.”
Another resident at the PPR, R. Saroginy, 68, said she, too, pushed aside feelings of shame to hoist the white flag.
It is now a matter of survival for the single mother of four.
“I’m only a cleaner, and my employer is paying my rent. At the same time, I need to care for a child who requires hospital treatment, and another child is at Permai Hospital.”
Nur Husna and Saroginy have received help from Econsave Cash & Carry Sdn Bhd, which initiated a campaign to help those flying the white flag.
Econsave general manager Mas Imran Adam said 500 families have been given aid, of which 200 are in Johor.
Those in need can send a picture of their flag and address to Econsave or call 016-213-7387, or share the photo on the company’s Facebook page.
The online #benderaputih campaign calls on those in need of food and other essentials to fly a white flag outside their home, allowing members of the community to be aware of their plight and provide assistance. – The Vibes, July 5, 2021
