KUCHING: A 45-year-old widower has sought continued assistance from Hope Place Kuching after the death of his wife earlier this year, leaving him to support their two school-going children.
Kamarudin Kassim said he left his job as a factory machine operator in 2024 to care full-time for his wife, Jamaliah, whose health had deteriorated.
Jamaliah, who had received aid from the non-governmental organisation since January, died from health complications.
“Earlier this year, when doctors told me it was just a matter of time, I felt all hope for the future begin to slip away,” Kamarudin said.
The couple’s children are aged eight and 15.
Despite his caregiving responsibilities, Kamarudin began planting and selling vegetables and tree saplings to supplement the family’s income.
He continues the small business and also earns extra money by transporting village children to and from school.
He also does woodwork and built the house in which he and his children now live, along with much of its furniture.
Kamarudin has applied for Baitulmal assistance while Hope Place is providing the family of three with basic food aid.
Hope Place Kuching can be contacted at 082 505 987 or 013 567 2775.
