SEREMBAN: Despite earning a modest montly income of RM800 to RM1,000 as a lorry attendant, 26-year-old Mohd Ashraf Mohammad Shah has shown remarkable compassion by taking in his three orphaned nephews while raising his own four children.
One of his children, three-year-old son Muhammad Aqil Iskandar, requires regular dialysis for kidney disease and hypertension.
The children lost their father to Covid-19 in 2020, leaving them vulnerable.
"Initially, my sister in Rantau took care of these children.
"However, in 2021, their mother took them back, promising to enrol the eldest in school," said Mohd Ashraf.
He however discovered his eldest nephew had been out of school since 2021.
"My sister struggles greatly in managing her life after her husband's death," he said.
The children's friends reported that they were often left hungry for days.
Despite his financial hardships, Mohd Ashraf couldn't bear to see his late brother-in-law's children suffering in such living conditions in Bukit Baru, Melaka.
"Although my own family is struggling financially, I cannot allow them to grow up like that," he said firmly.
"I trust in God's provision. Despite our circumstances, I want to help these orphans and ensure they receive an education," he said, adding that the district education office (PPD) has helped enrol the eldest child.
To make ends meet, his wife sells roti canai at night, supplementing his irregular income.
The couple spends about RM350 on diapers, RM700 on rent, and RM320 on his son's medical drink every month.
The family receives RM500 monthly from the Welfare Department, but their situation has been so dire that his wife resorted to selling simple flour pancakes at Port Dickson beach.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Aqil Iskandar's condition worsens, with body swelling now limiting his movement.
Those wishing to help this family can contact Mohd Ashraf at 01117452936.