SETIAWAN: The name R. Saravanan may not ring the bell for most but to the villagers of Kampung Spynie here, he is known for his selfless acts.
Just recently he took to building a home for a financially troubled family on his own land.
The 39-year-old odd-job worker has built a 300 sq ft house for a Chinese family of two, Siew Eng, 81 and her son, Ng Kem Leng, 55.
Siew whose house completely perished in a fire two years ago had nowhere to go since she has no other family members other than her son, Ng, who is partially blind.
"I didn't expect to be treated like this by Saravanan and his family. Although we are of different race and religion, he treats me just like his own mother.
"His family is helpful too and always share their food with us especially breakfast. I thought there are no longer any good people in this world, but I was wrong," she said, adding that she do not even know how to repay Saravanan and his family's good deeds.
Saravanan said it didn't matter if the person was Chinese, Malay or Indian because essentially everyone are human beings who need each other.
"I just want to help Siew who I call 'amma'. She is my mother, my 'amma'.
"I built the house for her since she has nowhere to go and she could not salvage anything during the incident. Every morning, I will bring her to the wet market to buy some fishes and vegetables.
"I love her just like my own mother," he said, adding that he could not wait to celebrate the Chinese New Year with Siew and her son.
State Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir who spent about half and hour at Siew's home, also announced another windfall for her.
He said that the state government through Yayasan Bina Upaya (YBU) will be building a new home for Siew, which is expected to be completed this year.
Zambry said Saravanan's selfless act and generosity is exemplary for all, showcasing extraordinary neighbourly spirit.
For Siew, the announcement made by the Menteri Besar was a big surprise for her even though she had been secretly waiting for someone to grant her a new home.
"This is like the best Chinese New Year gift for me. I could never afford it and I know that by just saying thank you, it is not enough.
"I will finally get to stay in my own home but I will never forget what Saravanan's family has done for my family," she said with a broad smile on her face.