About a year ago, it was reported that a family of 7 had travelled from Kelantan to Bukit Mertajam, Penang, to start a new life, only to be scammed and left living in their car. Thankfully, then-Human Resources Minister and Bukit Mertajam Member of Parliament (MP) Steven Sim stepped in to assist them by providing a home for them for a year.
Now, the family has reached out to invite Sim, who is now the Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, to spend some time with them at their new home after they spent the year improving their lives.
Steven Sim visited the family he helped a year ago
Taking to his Facebook page, Sim shared how he received the heartfelt invitation from Hilmi, the father of the family.
He wrote, “Recently, I received a WhatsApp message from Hilmi, ‘Merry Christmas, YB. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to start a new life. If YB has time, please stop by our house.‘ I took some time to visit Hilmi’s house. I wanted to see for myself the family’s situation compared to a year ago.”
“Hilmi welcomed me at the door, immediately hugged me, and said thank you. The man I met a year ago, sitting on an old banner next to his old car with his wife and 5 small children, today stands in front of his own house with a smile and confidence,” the Bukit Mertajam MP added.
Sim proudly explained that Hilmi now has a job that allows him to pay for his home, which is modest but comfortable, and feed his family heartily.
He also shared his joy upon seeing Hilmi and his wife, Yani, as well as their 6 children, after they welcomed a newborn a few months ago, living happily with his salary of RM5,000 as a lorry driver.
“I want YB to see for himself the results of YB’s help. I have not forgotten it,” Hilmi said.
“Don’t give up”
Sim went on to share his belief that helping people shouldn’t be for recognition.
He stated, “I didn’t do all of this to be remembered. I did it because I believe that when we help people in need, we don’t just change their lives but we change the future of their children too.”
“Hilmi thanked me again. I replied, ‘Don’t thank me. The important thing is that you got up. You didn’t give up. You kept going.‘ I saw Hilmi and Yani not only get up, but they got up with dignity. They didn’t beg, they didn’t complain. They made an effort, they worked hard, and they took care of their children with love. I’m proud of them,” Sim added.
Hilmi has also since sold the Perodua Bezza he and his family had previously lived in and purchased a Proton Waja, debt-free.
What do you think about this? Do feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section.
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