IPOH: "We don't always know what's going on with others. They could be struggling and suffering in silence. Your simple act of kindness could make all the difference in their lives."
These were the words of R. Yogeswary, 44, who works as a security guard at the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital here. She was the recipient of the Sejahtera Wanita Award (Safety Category), which was presented to her in conjunction with the state-level Women's Day celebration in Perak recently.
She received the award from Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
Yogeswary's act of kindness won netizens' hearts after a video of her helping patients and visitors had gone viral on social media. Most of them described Yogeswary as a special employee who performed her job well.
She will help open car doors, hold the lift for patients, visitors and staff, control traffic by directing drivers, calm anxious patients as well as congratulate mothers who have just given birth.
Despite having to work from 7am to 7pm at the hospital's Women, Children and Cardiology Complex, Yogeswary said she believed random acts of kindness could change someone's life.
"I am happy to help people. My mother taught me that as a human being, we need to always help each other. She told me sometimes it's the small things that have the biggest impact.
"I believe in that and I expect nothing in return. Patients and visitors here are mostly women, children and senior citizens. I don't know what are they going through and the least I can do is to help them," she told the New Straits Times.
The mother of two said engaging in selfless acts also gave her mind and body a "healthy boost".
"I feel calm when I help people, regardless of their race and religion. After my shift is done and I go back home, I feel my day is complete.
"I consider those who are in this hospital like my own brothers and sisters. I believe every religion teaches us to be kind to everyone."
Her act of kindness also caught the attention of Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa who thanked Yogeswary for her commitment through a Facebook post.
"I have never thought that I would get this recognition and award. I am only a security guard manning the parking lot but I feel lucky to be able to help the people," Yogeswary said.