Kuala Krau, Pahang, 15 October 2023 – In a world where time just goes by and the lives of the unfortunate few go unnoticed, the story of OSK Group through its property and construction arms, namely, OSK Property and OSK Construction, together with the Group’s philanthropic arm, OSK Foundation, joining hands to make a difference. It is a story of hearts coming together, of a dream realised, and the lives touched by “The Good Cause” initiative.
Nestled in the heart of Kampung Paya Mendoi, Kuala Krau, Pahang Darul Makmur, was a picturesque Orang Asli village where simplicity and serenity were once the norm. Yet, nature had other plans in 2014 when a devastating flood swept through, leaving behind a trail of destruction. For many Orang Asli families in the village, it was a disaster that took away their homes, their sense of security, and their hope.
Fast forward to today, a glimpse of hope has returned in the form of a new beginning for an Orang Asli family. The heartwarming endeavour was made possible through a partnership with the Persatuan Orang Asli Semenanjung Malaysia (“POASM”), an advocacy organisation dedicated to safeguarding the identity, heritage, and securing a better future for the Orang Asli community in Malaysia.
This story of kindness centers on a man named Samid A/L Puteh, who, like many in his village, lost his home in the catastrophic flood of 2014. After the waters receded, he, with the help of fellow villagers, built a makeshift wooden house that provided shelter but little else. Over the years, this humble abode aged with him, offering little in terms of comfort or security for his wife and four growing children.
For nine long years, Samid hoped and waited patiently for help in the form of housing assistance. Finally, that day arrived, and he was selected by POASM as the recipient of a brand-new house from OSK Group. The happiness in his heart was palpable, and the tears of joy flowing from his eyes spoke volumes of his appreciation. “I am very grateful for this new home,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion. “Now, my family and I will be staying in a more comfortable and conducive environment, especially for the upbringing of my four children.”
And so, the hope and dream that Samid held in his heart for nearly a decade finally became a reality on a warm sunny weekend. The construction of Samid’s new house starting from scratch took three weeks of effort by a team of 39 volunteers and workers, translating to approximately 1,578 manhours. It wasn’t just bricks and mortar; it was the culmination of a collective will to deliver warmth and to provide a roof over the heads of a deserving family. The entire process involving planning, design, purchasing of materials and logistics for the inaugural build under the initiative took about half a year.
The moment of truth came on 15 October 2023, when OSK Group Deputy Managing Director, Ong Ju Xing and Chief Executive Officer of OSK Property, Ong Ghee Bin, alongside the Chief Operating Officer of OSK Property, Lim Sow Wu, presented the set of keys for the new home to Samid.
In that instant, the team was handing over more than just a set of keys to a new house; it was the keys that unlock a future of safety, security, and most importantly, a sanctuary called ‘home’.
Names from Left:
- Aemy Lim, General Manager, Sales & Marketing, OSK Property
- Lim Sow Wu, Chief Operating Officer, OSK Property
Sambut Anak Sotet, fellow villager of Kampung Paya Mendoi - Ong Ju Xing, Deputy Managing Director, OSK Group
- Charlie Bin Din, Village Chief of Kampung Paya Mendoi
- Samid A/L Puteh, House Recipient
- Ong Ghee Bin, Chief Executive Officer, OSK Property
- Lee Kuan Hong, Head, Project Management, OSK Construction
- Lim Siaw Hua, Senior General Manager, Contracts Management, OSK Construction
“The meaning behind “The Good Cause” initiative goes beyond just a corporate social responsibility programme; it’s bears testament to our commitment to contribute and be part of a brighter future together with the community.
“The Good Cause project is our way of saying ‘thank you’ for the trust and support given by our stakeholders. It is also our way to strengthen the bond we have with our communities, and it is about improving lives. To us, a house is more than just a shelter; it is a foundation that provides stability and safety to one’s family,” said OSK Property CEO Ong Ghee Bin.
