This is a scenario that residents of Sungai Chua in Kajang, Selangor, accordingly observed, leading them to propose the idea of starting an old folks’ home in the area.
“Pertubuhan Kebajikan Warga Emas Sungai Chua began last August after residents in Sungai Chua saw the number of old people who have been abandoned in the area,” its founder, Choo Way Hao, told FMT.
Born and bred in the area, the 25-year-old said he was approached to start the facility as he was always involved in charity work.
At present, the home has 18 residents – 11 and seven women – between 65 and 90 years old. Most of them have problems with their mobility.
“Many of their families are poor and cannot take care of them,” Choo explained. “So, their children or siblings opt to send them here as we don’t charge them anything.”
While most of the residents come from Kajang, there are also those who come from Rawang and Ampang.
Additionally, the home takes in homeless seniors who are unwell. After they are nursed back to health, Choo said, some opt to leave as they prefer their freedom to the rules of the home.
An appeal
Unsurprisingly, the cost to keep the establishment running is substantial. Monthly operational expenses amount to RM17,500, including the rental of two double-storey semi-detached units.
“We also need to cover the salaries of four full-time workers who take care of the residents, cook for them, and take them to the hospital,” Choo said.
Then there are food expenses, utility bills, as well as miscellaneous expenditure such as the purchase of diapers and medicines. Furthermore, an estimated RM10,000 is required to repair the pipes and roofs of the properties, which are 30 to 40 years old.
“In the beginning, the residents of Sungai Chua helped to support the expenses, and we also received donations from the public and companies,” he shared.
However, the income was not stable and, today, they only have enough funds to cover operations for another two months.
Despite having shared a post concerning their financial need on Facebook on June 9, in addition to sending WhatsApp messages to appeal to the public, donations received thus far only amount to approximately RM10,000.
More financial help is needed to ensure the survival of the home, and Choo hopes to raise as much as possible through the generosity of Malaysians.
Asked why it’s important to take care of old people, he replied: “Most of the elderly are lonely, and there should be people to look after them. Even if you can’t take care of them, check in with them constantly to make sure they are doing okay, and simply have a chat with them.
“Don’t abandon your parents,” he concluded.
Those who wish to help can contribute directly to Pertubuhan Kebajikan Warga Emas Sungai Chua, Public Bank account 3226 893 932.
For more information, contact Choo Way Hao at 012-2491102.
Pertubuhan Kebajikan Warga Emas Sungai Chua
No 114 & 118,
Jalan 8, Taman Desa Bunga Raya,
43000 Kajang, Selangor
Opening hours: 10am-5pm daily
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