Bakar’s hard work has not been in vain. His daughter has become a respected judge, and his two sons are now a doctor and an engineer. — SCMP
A cleaner in Malaysia has devoted 27 years to his job without taking a day off to support his family, successfully raising children who have become a judge, a doctor, and an engineer.
Abu Bakar, now 70, originally hails from Bangladesh, having left his hometown 31 years ago in search of work in Malaysia.
In an interview with Humans of Kuala Lumpur, he recalled hearing about abundant job opportunities in Malaysia and his willingness to take on work that others were hesitant to perform.
Over the years, Bakar has worked seven days a week without taking a single day off.
He consistently sent most of his earnings back to Bangladesh to support his children’s education and living expenses.
While his salary has not been disclosed, the employment website Indeed reports that the average monthly salary for a cleaner in Malaysia is about RM1,640 (US$400).
According to the Internet database Numbeo, a family of four living in Bangladesh incurs monthly costs of about US$1,200, excluding rent.
It remains unclear what jobs and sources of income support Bakar’s family in Bangladesh.
“I haven’t returned to Bangladesh since I came here. I miss my family, and they miss me too, but everything I’ve done has been for my children’s better future,” Bakar shared.
He described his daily routine as simple and repetitive: “Each day, I wake up, shower, have breakfast, go to work, return home, call my family in the village, and then rest.”
Bakar’s hard work has not been in vain.
His daughter has become a respected judge, and his two sons are now a doctor and an engineer.
“I’m truly grateful for what my children have achieved,” he said.
According to Humans of Kuala Lumpur, Bakar has returned to Bangladesh to reunite with his family. When he left, his fifth and youngest son was six months old.
His story has garnered considerable attention on social media earning him a wide range of admiration.
One online user commented: “What an incredible role model! His unwavering faith and love for his family have kept him going all these years.”
“Never underestimate the dignity of labour. These workers build better futures for their families with their own hands and deserve everyone’s respect,” noted another.
However, a netizen criticised his children, stating: “If I were a judge, doctor, or engineer, I would have brought my father home long ago. No parent should suffer for their kids’ success.” – South China Morning Post
