Assemblyman friendly chat makes nonagenarian's day

SANDAKAN, March 5 -- A 90-year-old newspaper vendor here did not expect the friendly man who speaks fluent Mandarin and greeted him at a market here today is an elected representative.

In fact, Wong Khen Kong said he was really impressed with appointed assemblyman, Jaffari Waliam’s fluency in Mandarin.

“I did not know Jaffari was a YB (Yang Berhormat). I heard he was a good and friendly man. 

“I hope he will buy newspaper from me. I hope he can see me here,” he said when met at the Info on Wheels (IOW) programme at Pasar Batu 8, here, launched by Jaffari.

Wong has been selling newspaper since 50 years ago around Batu 8 after quitting as a school clerk.

He said, many have complimented his healthy physique and said that he looked 20 to 30 years younger than his real age although he admitted to having hearing problems. 

In fact, Wong said he often asked to show his MyKad to prove his age as many do not believe he was born in 1931.

Wong’s wife had died 10 years ago but he was grateful to have been blessed with three grandchildren, thanks to his adopted son.  

Meanwhile, asked what transpired between him and Wong, Jaffari said he had advised the man to take care of his health and personal hygiene as well as to always wear face mask since the latter was at higher risk of COVID-19 infection.

“Uncle (Wong) said he did not know me but I told him I did. I also bought a newspaper from him and gave him some money so that he could return home early and rest,” said Jaffari.

At the programme, Jaffari also advised the public who still had doubts over the COVID-19 vaccine to obtain verified news through IOW.

“The vaccine provides immunisation against the COVID-19 as well as health benefits.  

“We can also see that our Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhiyiddin Yassin is healthy after taking the vaccine shot over a week ago which proves that the vaccine is safe,” he said. 

-- BERNAMA