KUCHING: Muslims are looking forward to Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a time of great joy and celebration for many.
However, amidst the festivities, there are those who choose to embrace a more modest approach this year, opting for frugality over extravagance.
One such individual is Siti Zaiton Bujang, 51, whose resilience and determination shine brightly amidst her personal challenges.
Zaiton lost her husband to a fatal stroke last year. In the months preceding his passing, her family received invaluable support from Hope Place, including specialised milk supplements and adult diapers for her ailing husband.
Even after his demise, the NGO continues to extend Zaiton a helping hand, providing essential food aid and school supplies for her two school-going children, aged 11 and 13.
According to Hope Place, Zaiton receives food aid from it once every two months.
Although Raya will be different this year without her husband, Zaiton stands tall, embodying the spirit of independence and hard work instilled in her from a young age.
She operates a renowned beef noodle stall at a coffee shop at Sekama Road.
Her entrepreneurial journey began in her youth when she gleaned invaluable experience while assisting at food stalls.
This upbringing nurtured a resilient spirit within her, one that refused to succumb to adversity.
Even as she tended to her bedridden husband, Zaiton had remained steadfast in her commitment to her business, opening her noodle stall each day in a desperate bid to secure her family’s livelihood.
“My mom told me that if I worked hard and never gave up, I could reach for the stars,” shared Zaiton.
Throughout the holy month of Ramadan, Zaiton’s days begin before dawn as she diligently prepares the ingredients and readies her stall for customers by 6 o’clock each morning.
Emerging from a period of mourning, she found solace in her daily routines, driven by the unwavering responsibility of single-handedly providing for her children.
“I don’t have time to dwell on the past. I wake up every morning telling myself to start the day with a smile,” she affirmed, reflecting her unwavering optimism in the face of adversity.
Despite her brave façade, Zaiton misses her husband terribly.
Amidst her loneliness, she finds solace in the support of her siblings, who frequently gather at her home, bringing not just food but also companionship during these trying times.
Zaiton is looking forward to visits from her two married daughters and her grandchildren. They will bring a lot of laughters, joy and warmth to her home.
For those interested in extending support to individuals like Zaiton and her family, Hope Place or Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK) stand as beacons of hope. The NGO can be reached at 082-505987; its operating hours are from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm from Mondays to Fridays and 8.00 am to noon on Saturdays.
