Retirement is the time where individuals who have spent a good portion of their lives working and saving up money to live their lives in comfort and leisure.
However, this 83-year-old man is defying the societal norm of retiring at his age and instead chose to continue working as he wanted to do something fulfilling while he still can.
83yo M’sian man works as cleaner despite age, says he doesn’t want to be ‘useless’
This extremely hardworking senior citizen is Zhan Dengqing (transliteration), who currently works as a cleaner at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, five and a half days a week and earns RM1,500 monthly.
In an interview with China Press, Zhan said that having a job gave him a sense of fulfilment and purpose while keeping him physically and mentally fit.
“Retirement was never on my mind as I never wanted to live a life that makes me feel useless. I will continue to work until my body finally gives up on me,” he said.
Started working at the age of 11
Zhan, who was born in Kedah, told the Chinese daily that he started working at the age of 11 after dropping out of school due to financial constraints, where his first job was at a grocery store.
When he turned 26, he moved to Penang and took up various jobs such as wedding photography and making furniture craftsmanship. As for his current cleaning job at USM, he has held it for seven years.
“My wife and children don’t oppose my decision to work at this age. I feel that as long as I’m physically fit, I can earn some extra money to avoid burdening my children,” he said.
Shocked doctor with MC application
While Zhan has no major health issues, he suffers from high blood pressure and once took medical leave to rest.
His daughter told China Press that when she went to apply for the MC on his behalf, she said the doctor was shocked to learn that he was still working at the age of 83.
She also noted that Zhan was more physically fit than she was despite not exercising regularly.
When asked about the secret of his robust health, Zhan revealed that he has been a vegetarian since his early 20s and prefers light, simple meals.
“I avoid fried and processed foods, instant noodles, cold beverages, as well as smoking and drinking. I also don’t have an aircon in my room since I’m not fond of it.”
To all the younger readers, what’s your excuse?
READ ALSO:
