While many of us celebrate the Hari Raya holidays, we should always remember that there are others out there who cannot celebrate due to the circumstances they’ve been dealt with.
Among those who unfortunately are unable to celebrate Hari Raya freely is 10-year-old Ikwan, who had to man a vegetable stall on his own to help provide for his family.
Restaurateur, Ernest Ong, took to his Facebook page to showcase his Ikwan’s story.
He wrote, “For the past few days, I noticed this little boy that has been sleeping under the table and tending to a vegetable stall without adult supervision. I was driving home today (3 May) at 5pm, I saw him sleeping under a tree. I parked and went to speak to him to check what was going on, if I could be of any help.”
This is what Ikwan told him.
“His name is Ikwan, he is 10-years-old. His father apparently works at Pasar Selayang. His mother is looking after the baby at home. They stay at Sungai Penchala. They will pick him up tonight, but he doesn’t know what time,”
“I noticed he doesn’t have any food, so I asked him if he’s eaten. He said he ate in the morning at 11am and he is hungry.”
Ernest offered to buy the little boy some food, to which he requested for rice with chicken. Due to shops being closed for the holiday season, Ernest managed to get the boy some McDonald’s instead. Ernest then took the opportunity to accompany the boy while he ate.
“I really don’t know what is going on as I didn’t get to speak to the parents. They may be going through a rough time, I don’t know. But for a 10-year-old to be spending Hari Raya at a cross junction trying to sell vegetables without anyone buying at all today is heartbreaking,” Ernest shared.
He has since urged others in the area to show their support for the little boy.
“The very least we can do is put a smile on his face. If you are passing by TTDI mosque, you will notice he is there at the corner. Sometimes sleeping under the tree or under the table. Put a smile on his face. Some Raya cookies or goodies will be nice,”
“If anyone gets to speak to the parents, please share their contact with me. I would like to be of help if it is urgent,” he added, while wishing the little boy a Selamat Hari Raya.
It is truly saddening to know that there are children out there who have to work and carry such burdens, especially during their religious holiday when they are supposed to be celebrating.
We genuinely hope good samaritans will also stop and purchase the boy’s vegetables.
What do you think about this? Let us know in the comment section.
Also read: Underprivileged Girl Jumps & Hugs Father In Excitement After He Bought Her A Toy Watch
