KUCHING: Local non-governmental organisation (NGO), Hope Place, has extended a helping hand to a 59-year-old mentally disabled man living in a derelict wooden house at Sg. Moyan here.
Chin Kuek Chian, who lives alone in his late parents’ dilapidated single-storey home, is a recipient of continuous food aid from the NGO to supplement his RM350 monthly assistance from the Social Welfare Department (JKM).
According to his sister, only known as Mei, Chin’s family first noticed signs of his mental disability at age 12.
Although he completed primary school, he was unable to pursue secondary education or maintain long-term employment as a construction labourer due to unpredictable emotional outbursts and difficulties with socialisation.
During a recent visit, Hope Place observed that while Chin could respond to basic questions, he relied heavily on his sisters for matters regarding his finances and medication.
“Chin frequently experiences mood swings. Two of our sisters previously lived with him but eventually moved out due to his occasional violent episodes.
“However, they live nearby and continue to monitor his well-being,” Mei shared.
Despite his challenges, Chin maintains a level of independence by washing his own clothes and walking to nearby Moyan Square for supplies.
His sisters also visit daily to cook a meal for him.
The NGO highlighted the dire state of Chin’s living conditions, noting that the house features a dirt floor and a collapsed roof, leaving the interior exposed to the elements during the current rainy season.
With the kitchen wall partially missing and the outhouse destroyed, Chin has been forced to use a chamber pot.
To provide immediate relief, Hope Place has supplied Chin with a new bed and pillow.
The public can support Hope Place Kuching’s mission by contacting 082-505987 or 013-5672775.
Donations can be made directly to Maybank account 511289001160 (Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching) or via SPAY GLOBAL through their official Facebook page.
