Tamil Primary School In Perak Owes Its Existence To A Chinese Man Who Did Not Collect Rent
"I am merely returning all the support I have been receiving from Indian rubber tappers," he said.
By Sadho Ram — 13 Dec 2023, 12:47 PM
In a heartwarming testament to the spirit of unity and support in Malaysia, a 78-year-old rubber trader from Sitiawan, Perak has been exemplifying what it means to be a true Malaysian for 30 years
Three decades ago, Yek Dong Ping purchased a plot of agricultural land in Ayer Tawar for RM330,000. At that time, a Tamil primary school, SJKT Ayer Tawar, was already present on the land, reported MySinchew.
Instead of displacing the school, Yek not only allowed it to continue operating but also waived any rent charges. He went a step further by covering the quit rent for the school, which occupies half an acre of the land.
Yek's motivation was clear — he wanted to support the school, ensuring that Indian-Tamil children could learn their mother tongue in a conducive environment. His commitment to this cause became even more evident last year when the school approached him to buy the land for expansion and refurbishment.
Despite the land's value being around RM200,000 per acre, Yek displayed remarkable generosity by agreeing to sell close to three acres for only RM400,000, facilitating the school's plans for education
The school agreed.
However, when Yek learned that the school's board of directors did not have the funds ready, he said he would donate RM50,000 to the school's fundraising campaign and only take RM350,000 for the land.
As the school faced difficulties in raising funds, Yek further reduced the price to RM300,000.
This act of kindness earned him praise and admiration from the school, particularly its two vice headmistresses
They praised him for not collecting any rent from the school, which was established in 1938, as well as for sponsoring school activities and even delivering mandarin oranges during Chinese New Year.
"I am not rich, but I can still afford to pay the quit rent," Yek humbly stated, emphasising that his support is a way of giving back to the Indian rubber tappers who have supported him throughout the years.
