M’sian boy, 17, quit school to care for cancer-stricken dad, 54, who has died, now family in debt, public urged to help

A 17-year-old boy, who quit school to support his cancer-stricken 54-year-old father, now requires help.

This was after the boy's father passed away and his family is saddled with debts.

The boy had to drop out of school previously to help support his parents.

More than S$6,000 owed to hospital

In a Facebook post by Malaysian social activist Kuan Chee Heng, he claimed that the boy approached him after his father's passing.

The boy apparently told Kuan that his family owes about RM20,000 (S$6,291) in hospital bills and the hospital is seeking payment.

Kuan added that the boy’s family is also purportedly facing eviction, as the boy's father failed to make rent after falling sick.

The boy's family is "penniless", Kuan added.

Even though aid has apparently been sought from a non-governmental organisation, the boy was apparently told he had to wait for three weeks for a decision if he was getting help.

Kuan added that the boy is even looking to purchase a coffin for his father's funeral, but it would cost about RM9,400 (S$2,957).

Use late father's government credits for food

In a subsequent post, Kuan said the boy even asked if he could use his late father’s remaining government credits to buy food.

His father apparently had RM70 (S$22) left in cashless financial aid funds.

“I told them go ahead, and if the police or authorities question them, just tell (them that) my dad just passed away and we are hungry,” the caption read.

“Even the RM70 means a lot for him and his mom. I am trying to care for them. He wanted badly to study but who will be bringing in money for rental and food on the table," Kuan added.

Kuan has since appealed for donations to help the family.