While many would shudder at the thought of working as a garbage collector, this isn’t the case for 23-year-old Wan Othman Mohd Nur Hasyim, who’s been working as one for four years.
Speaking to Harian Metro about his job, Wan Othman said his family was the driving factor that made him take up a job that’s commonly despised by many.
Took up job for family
Wan Othman said his routine starts at 9:30pm, where he works the night shift until 6am.
He added that his father provided for the family by cutting grass and cleaning drains, while his mother doesn’t work.
However, the income still isn’t enough to sustain the family, especially with three younger members still in school, and this has led Wan Othman to work as a garbage collector.
No shame in his job
When asked whether he feels embarrassed by his job as a garbage collector, Wan Othman said he has no such sentiments.
“I don’t feel ashamed because I’m determined to work and earn money to help my family.
“For those who look down on this job, I consider them even worse when they don’t know how to throw rubbish properly.”
When asked about the challenges he faces, Wan Othman said he has encountered members of the public who don’t tie their garbage bags before throwing them into bins.
“Such irresponsible behaviour causes rubbish to scatter and slows down the garbage collection process.
“Vehicles parked near rubbish bins, especially behind shops, also make it difficult for us to collect the garbage,” he added.
Aside from being a garbage collector, Wan Othman also works part-time at a food stall during the day.
He also told the Malay daily that he is currently obtaining a lorry driving licence as he hopes to work as a lorry driver to advance his career.
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