OPERATOR Azman Arshad, 46, has worn an artificial leg for more than 26 years and used to worry about the high cost of repairing his prosthetic limb, especially with the rising cost of living leaving him with very little.
As the sole breadwinner for his family, he also supports a wife, three children and older parents to take care of.
However, today, Azman and other amputees were in a jubilant mood as they received brand new prosthetic limbs, thanks to the Free Prosthesis Programme organised by the Che Hoon Khor Moral Uplifting Society (MUS) Penang.
Azman said he has been wearing his artificial left leg since he was 20, following a motorcycle accident that led to the amputation of his right leg.
“After wearing it for so long, the artificial leg started to wear out. I did not feel comfortable when walking or working with it.
“I told my friend and my boss about my situation and asked if they knew the right place to get it repaired. They informed me that the repair cost was quite high.
“That was when my boss recommended me to register for this Free Prosthesis Programme.
“Now, I am glad that I can now walk and work comfortably,” said Azman, who works as an operator at a warehouse company in Bukit Tengah.
Another recipient, Sudenthiran Nagalingam, 43, thanked MUS Penang for their noble initiative.
“I had my right leg amputated two years ago due to a motorcycle accident while returning home from work.
“I have been using an underarm crutch since then because the cost of getting a new artificial leg is very expensive.
“Today, I feel much better because my leg feels lighter, and I can walk more easily with this artificial leg,” he said.
A total of 106 recipients received free prosthetic limbs today during the special ceremony held at the MUS Penang building on Macalister Road.
The programme was held in conjunction with the society’s 70th anniversary on May 31.
The artificial legs were provided under the Free Prosthesis Programme, organised by the society since 2007, with technical support and advice from the Prosthesis Foundation Under the Patronage of the Princess Mother of Thailand.
MUS Penang president Datuk Sim Ah Chye said this year’s event marked its sixth edition in Penang.
“Over the years, we have spent around RM2.7 million since the first edition.
“Through this programme, we have helped more than 1,000 amputees who need prosthetic limbs.
“We are committed to continuing to organise this programme in the future,” he said.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was also present, commended MUS Penang for helping the amputees through this programme.
“This programme is very beneficial as it means a lot to them, allowing them to now walk again and continue their lives normally.
“On behalf of the state government, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to MUS Penang for helping those in need of artificial legs so that they can lead a normal life.
“Although MUS Penang is a religious association, I salute their commitment to organising this programme and helping amputees regardless of race and religion,” said Chow.
Also present during the programme was MUS Penang adviser and organising chairman Datuk Seri Ng Tee Soo.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting
Video by Alissala Thian