SERIAN: Hope Place Kuching recently extended support to two siblings with mental disabilities in Kampung Tema Penggal here, following a referral from a social worker at Serian Hospital.
The siblings, Petrus Labon, 49, and his sister Roselind, 52, rely heavily on monthly welfare assistance and the goodwill of their local community.
Unable to maintain steady employment due to their conditions, they live a quiet life sustained by the compassion of those around them.
Petrus suffers from schizophrenia and requires regular medical injections.
Roselind, a registered person with disabilities (OKU), has taken on the role of caregiver since their parents passed away.
Unlike her brother, Roselind is shy and withdrawn, often avoiding strangers. She spends most days foraging for wild vegetables in the nearby forest, which she uses to prepare their meals.
Despite her quiet nature, she diligently maintains their home – cooking, cleaning, and ensuring their modest household remains in order.
During the visit, Hope Place was accompanied by the assistant to the village head, who expressed concern for the siblings’ wellbeing.
The village head frequently checks on them and even safeguards their identification documents after an incident where Petrus accidentally burned his MyKad.
Roselind currently receives RM300 per month from the Social Welfare Department.
The non-governmental organisation (NGO) commended the community’s ongoing care, noting that local villagers – including members of a nearby church – regularly offer assistance and donations.
Hope Place has begun providing basic food aid to the siblings and encourages members of the public who wish to contribute to reach out.
For more information, contact Hope Place (Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching) at 082-505 987 or 013-567 2775.
Donations are welcome, and tax-exempt receipts are available upon request.
Contributions can also be made via Maybank (MBB): 5112 8900 1160, or through Sarawak Pay/S PAY GLOBAL via the NGO’s Facebook page.
