M'sian orphan, 15, spends S$0.75 a day on school meals, uses leftover change to buy food for grandma

A Malaysian boy has made headlines for spending only RM2.5 (S$0.75) in school, and using the leftover change to buy food for his grandmother.

Wan En, 15, became an orphan after his father passed away earlier this year during Chinese New Year.

Malaysia's Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, who visited the boy and his grandmother, took to Facebook on Mar. 9 to declare that he will support the boy and his grandmother.

Became an orphan at 15

When Wan En was only nine years old, his mother passed away suddenly.

He was too young to grasp what was happening then, Sim said.

During Chinese New Year this year, tragedy struck again when his father died of a heart attack, leading Wan En to become an orphan at 15 years old.

Though the boy seldom cried, his grandmother said he'd been crying every night recently.

His grandmother pleaded with Sim to watch over her grandson if anything were to happen to her.

At 83 years old, the elderly woman struggles to walk, let alone prepare food.

Using her retirement savings for their daily expenses, she gives Wan En RM5 (S$1.50) for school meals.

Yet the 15-year-old would only spend RM2.5 (S$0.75) in school, using the leftover change to buy food for his grandmother.

He also began working part-time at a char kway teow stall, earning around RM20 (S$6) a day.

"He gave all the money earned to his grandma," Sim said.

Grandmother and grandson frequently ate instant noodles

Sim said that when he visited the family, he learned they would frequently eat instant noodles.

The minister then brought groceries for the family so that they have healthier options for food.

He also gave RM10,000 (S$3,000) to the elderly woman, promising that as long as he is around, he will ensure that there is food on the table for them.

Sim also declared that he will support Wan En by giving him a monthly allowance so the boy can focus on his studies.

Noting that Wan En's father wanted to buy the boy a basketball before his passing, Sim added that he will buy Wan En the ball to fulfill his late dad's wish.

The minister said Wan En's story reminded him of the reason he went into politics:

"My mission is simple, to serve all Malaysians, regardless of race and religion. Friends, life has its ups and downs, don't worry, if misfortune strikes, the government will help, neighbours will help, because this is Madani."

Top image via Steven Sim Chee KeongFacebook