Senior citizen M Kamala may not have much to go by for herself, but one thing she does have is a heart of gold.

The 71-year-old has been sheltering her former neighbour of 20 years, Yap Su Vun, 87, in her own humble rented home in Jalan Kubang Buaya in Kuantan, Pahang, the past five months, as the latter has no relatives of his own.

"We were neighbours for 20 years until our homes were demolished about eight years ago. I moved around until I ended up here while Yap went to live in Jalan Haji Ahmad.

"But since Yap is getting on in age, I thought it is better for him to come stay with me so I can look after him. He can barely walk these days," The Star quoted her saying.

Yap, who was never married, used to take care of Kamala's grandchildren when she was out doing odd jobs, and now it's time for her to repay his kindness, she told the daily.

Kamala herself survives on the RM350 monthly aid she receives from the Welfare Department, and whatever else her two grandsons give her.

As for Yap, he does not qualify for the welfare aid as he holds a red identity card.

"I would work if I could but I suffer from asthma and terrible eyesight. It is a bit tough living with what little money we have but I will not abandon Yap.

"People may gossip but I don't care. I also do not think about race at all. He is like a brother to me," she told the daily.

What a heart of gold indeed!Kamala's selfless act puts a lot of us who have much, but so little to offer, to shame.

Those who wish to assist Kamala and Yap by contributing daily necessities may do so by contacting the service centre of Semambu assemblyman Lee Chean Chung, who has also pledged to help, at No. 1, Lorong Sekilau 58, Jalan Haji Ahmad, 25300 Kuantan.


Source: The Star
Photo source: The Star