GEORGE TOWN: Although Ganesh Soundarajah does not celebrate Christmas, his family of five have expressed their gratitude to Malaysians for bringing them cheer and relief during the Yuletide season.
Due to the concern and generosity of many, Ganesh, his wife Parameswary, 32, and their three children, Girthikanesh, 6, Devi Shri, 3, and eight-month-old Kirthana, had finally moved out of their Proton Saga where they had been living for eight months.
The 34-year-old security guard and his family had lost their home in Lebuh Carnarvon in a fire in April.
Ganesh, who had been using public baths for shower and grooming for over half a year, told Bernama that he had never felt so happy to take a shower in their own bathroom after receiving the keys to a unit at the Rifle Range flats in Ayer Itam here yesterday.
He expressed his gratitude to the Penang government for approving his application for a People’s Public Housing (PPR) unit and providing them a temporary home.
He is also grateful to the Penang Hindu Association as well as the media for the extensive coverage nationwide that has brought his woes to public attention.
“Finally, I cannot describe how thankful I am for the Malaysians who have helped me and my family go through these tough times,” he said at his new home.
Their plight had attracted the attention of many kind-hearted individuals, including celebrity preacher Ebit Lew who visited them and bought them electrical appliances for their new home.
During today’s interview, Ganesh’s family was greeted by volunteers from different groups.
Tzu Chi Rifle Range Community representative Law Mooi Keow, who donated mattresses and pillows, said they met up with Ganesh and his family this morning.
“We provided them with portable mattresses, pillows and covers so that they can be easily carried whenever the family is ready to move into a new home,” she said.
Meanwhile, two volunteers from “Member Live of Mutiara FM” Facebook group also donated food and condiments.
Norafiza Zainudin, 37, said they had shared a news article about Ganesh to the group and had urged members to donate.
“We plan to gather another batch of donations from the group and give it to Ganesh by next month,” she said, adding that the group has over 2,000 members.