Experiencing the loss of a loved one can be one of the most agonizing life events we encounter. People deal with their grief in a myriad of ways – for one man, he found the fortitude to persevere by investing his energy into cultivating an orchard in KL.
Malaysian father loses his son
Following the tragic loss of his son seven years earlier, Uncle Yen sought a method to manage his grief.
As per Wiki Impact, Uncle Yen, also known by the name Yen Maseri Hj Idris, made the decision to quit his job following his son’s demise.
Quits his 32-year-long career in recruitment
With a 32-year-long career in recruitment and a year spent as a gravedigger, Uncle Yen confessed that the loss of his son deeply affected him.
To keep himself occupied, he resigned from his job and embarked on a personal project close to his residence.
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In a video conversation with Wiki Impact, Uncle Yen revealed that he converted a mosquito-infested area into a flourishing orchard.
Named as Urban Orchard KL, the area is now teeming with a variety of fruit trees and a pristine stream, providing a habitat for Tilapia fish and tortoises. He also cares for several stray animals in the vicinity.
Initially, Uncle Yen financed the project from his own savings. He has since established a club of 150 members who contribute financially for necessities such as protective gates or veterinary bills for the stray animals.
Although the orchard is currently not open to the public, Uncle Yen envisions it as a place for the younger generation to enjoy. He also harbors a dream of establishing an ice cream shop in the same area someday.
“This is my gift to the youth. All I do is maintain the orchard, and that alone brings me immense joy. I’ve always told the young ones that this is for them,” Uncle Yen shares.
You can watch the video here:
@wikiimpact For International Mother Earth Day last week, we visited a hidden green lung in the Klang Valley 🌳🍃@UOKL #wikiimpact #malaysia #earth #environment #nature #awareness #data #community #changemakers #impact #foryou #fyp ♬ Relaxing Japanese-style piano song inviting nostalgia