Sarmah Othman (left) holding the trophy while her children look at the mock cheque after the prize-giving ceremony.
Two senior citizens who brought up their children after the death of their spouses were recognised for their sacrifices.
They won the state-level "Single Mother" and "Dedicated Father" awards in the Anugerah Ibu Bapa Mithali 2011. The awards were mooted by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman.
Sarmah Othman, 69, from Muar, brought up five children after her husband was killed in a road accident when she was 36. She was three months pregnant at the time.
"Although I was very sad at that time, I knew I had to be strong. I am glad that all my children grew up to be good citizens," Sarmah said after receiving her award from State Religious Committee chairman Datuk Zainal Abidin Osman.
Sarmah's children now are university lecturers and heads of department.
Rufie Suratman, 74, from Pontian, won the "Dedicated Father" award. He brought up six children after his wife died of leukaemia 29 years ago.
Receiving only a pension of RM450 a month, Rufie harvested pineapples and became a rubber tapper to support his family.
"On top of taking on more than one job to earn a higher income, I had to do all the house chores."
Rufie's children are working adults now.
Rufie and Sarmah each received a cheque of RM5,000, a trophy, electrical appliances worth RM700 and other prizes.
No comments:
Post a Comment