A Roof Over Their Heads: A Family’s Journey from Homelessness to Hope
A Family’s Struggle
PETALING JAYA: A family of seven, including a lorry driver, his wife, and their five children, have been living in a car for some time. Their plight has finally caught the attention of human resources minister Steven Sim, who has stepped in to provide them with a roof over their heads.
The Struggle to Make Ends Meet
According to Sim, the family, known as Hilmi, had moved from Kelantan to Penang to eke out a living. They had rented a house, but were evicted by their landlord despite having paid a deposit. With no other options, they were forced to move into their car, which was barely habitable. The car’s windows and rear windscreen were covered with plastic sheets, and the family had to get creative to make it work.
A Desperate Situation
The situation became increasingly desperate, with Hilmi eventually having to quit his job as a lorry driver. He used the car, which had become their home, to work for Lalamove, a logistics company. However, the constant juggling act took a toll on the family, with two of their children dropping out of school.
A Turning Point
Their plight finally caught the attention of Sim, the Bukit Mertajam MP, who was determined to help. He found a new home for the family, complete with a sofa set, beds, stove, and refrigerator. He also helped Hilmi find a new job as a lorry driver and arranged for his children to return to school.
A New Beginning
When Sim presented the keys to the new home to Hilmi, he was overcome with emotion. Sim reminded him not to despair and encouraged him to rebuild their lives. "When I gave Hilmi the keys, he teared up. I reminded him not to despair and said it was time to rebuild their lives," Sim said.
A Commitment to the Family’s Future
Sim has committed to paying the rent for a year, ensuring that the family has a stable and secure future. The family’s journey from homelessness to hope is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of a supportive community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the family’s situation before they received help from Minister Sim?
A: The family was living in a car, having been evicted from their previous home despite having paid a deposit.
Q: How did the family manage to make ends meet?
A: Hilmi used the car, which had become their home, to work for Lalamove, a logistics company.
Q: What kind of help did Minister Sim provide to the family?
A: Sim found a new home for the family, helped Hilmi find a new job as a lorry driver, and arranged for the family’s children to return to school. He has also committed to paying the rent for a year.