FAMILY: Despite all odds

New Straits Times

July 28, 2013

WHENEVER Hari Raya approaches, Ustaz Hafiz Hashim Qassim, a Myanmar Muslim, feels for the orphans and unfortunate children seeking refuge at Madrasah Anak-anak Yatim dan Tahfiz Quran Hashimiah where he is the headmaster. He worries if he is not able to buy them new clothes or shoes for Hari Raya.

Children at the home comprise children of Myanmar refugees and Indonesian immigrants. Some are orphans while others are from poor families. There are about 160 kids at the home. As foreigners, they don’t receive much help. 

“This home is not popular. We are not familiar with the Internet and don’t have brochures to spread the word. It has always been difficult for us. But no matter what, I will make sure each kid gets to enjoy new clothes and shoes for Hari Raya,” says the Ustaz.

“I know these kids, and like other kids I’m sure they want to feel brand new for Hari Raya. They want new clothes and fancy shades when they go around visiting homes for Hari Raya. I and the other teachers will find ways to make that a reality,” says Mohd Hafiz.

“Some of the kids whose parents are still around may get their Raya items from them. But the rest are really poor. So these are the kids I’m bringing out for Hari Raya shopping,” he explains.

Starting next week, he will be taking the kids, five at a time, to shop. “This is the best time for them,” Mohd Hafiz adds.

To make some extra cash for Hari Raya, the kids and teachers cook bubur lambuk and sell it during Ramadan.

Mohd Hafiz does not subscribe to begging to make some money.

Curious, I wander around the home. Located at one of the shop lots in Selayang Baru, the home is adjacent to Selayang Wet Market. There is no sign of a television or beds. I see children lying down on the floor. Fasting might have made them a little tired. But they get up once they notice I’m walking by.

“You see kakak (sister), the kids here may not grow up to be doctors or engineers. But we teach them to open their eyes, ears and hearts to their surroundings. If they grow up to be a kind person and diligent to God, that is good enough,” says Mohd Hafiz who is fluent in Bahasa Malaysia. He has lived in Malaysia for 18 years.

To get in touch with the shelter, call Mohd Hafiz, at 019-262 1671.