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 Malaysian boy had to quit school to support his 54-year-old father, who was suffering from cancer. Tragically, the father passed away, leaving the family burdened with debts. According to a post by Malaysian social activist Kuan Chee Heng on Facebook, the boy reached out to him after his father's passing.

The boy revealed that the family owes approximately RM20,000 (S$6,291) in hospital bills, and the hospital is demanding payment. Furthermore, the father's inability to pay rent due to his illness has led to the family potentially facing eviction. The boy's family is currently penniless, according to Kuan.

Although the boy sought assistance from a non-governmental organization, he was informed that he would have to wait for three weeks before receiving a decision on the help. In another post, Kuan mentioned that the boy even inquired if he could utilize his late father's remaining government credits for food. His father had only RM70 (S$22) left in cashless financial aid funds.

Kuan allowed that request, stating that he encouraged the boy and his mother to go ahead with it. He explained that even that small amount would mean a great deal to them. Kuan emphasized his own efforts to care for the family, noting that his father had aspired to attend school but they needed financial support to cover rental and food expenses. Kuan subsequently appealed for donations to aid the family during this difficult time.