KUCHING: In the face of life’s challenges, the love and support of family become our anchor, celebrating our victories and comforting us in times of failure.
For Hope Place Kuching, witnessing such family bonding is always a privilege. Recently, the local non-governmental organisation (NGO) visited a 62-year-old grandfather in Kg Haji Baki here, who resides with his two adult children and five grandchildren.
“Amat Malik Chonong, grappling with multiple health issues, required assistance, prompting the intervention of Hope Place,” stated a spokesperson in a statement on Monday (March 25).
“Amat suffered a stroke last year and is still in recovery. He speaks softly, with a mumble, and requires assistance for mobility. In 2019, he underwent heart surgery at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur. Despite being only 62, his health struggles have aged him significantly.”
Additionally, Amat faces vision problems, experiencing blurred vision in both eyes. During the visit, Hope Place also observed discolouration and slight swelling in his legs, indicating potential diabetes.
Living with Amat are his 32-year-old son, Kamarul Amat, who works as an e-hailing driver, and his daughter, employed at a local coffee shop.
Both of Amat’s children are single parents, with Kamarul supporting two children and his sister caring for three schooling children.
Despite financial struggles and busy schedules, there is always a family member present to attend to Amat’s needs at home.
Kamarul shared the challenges of balancing caregiving responsibilities with work, emphasising the difficulty of single parenthood.
“We strive to provide the best for our children. Additionally, my sister and I are deeply concerned for our father’s wellbeing,” he told Hope Place.
Amat had applied for assistance from the Social Welfare Department (JKM) in 2022, facilitated by the village head, but approval is still pending.
In the meantime, Hope Place is providing support to Amat, including adult diapers, and school supplies and toys for the youngest grandchild.
For further information, individuals can contact Hope Place or Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK) at 082-505987.
