JOHOR BARU: At 69 years old, Abd Ghani Man should be enjoying his retirement by spending time with his family, especially his four children.
He, however, has chosen not to do so.
Abd Ghani recently went viral on social media for accepting jobs and offering his services to repair refrigerators and other electrical equipment, a trade he has been involved in for the past 20 years.
He wishes to continue this work out of passion and a desire to remain independent without relying on his children.
"My children always care and are concerned about my well-being. But I prefer to stand on my own two feet.
"Moreover, I am still healthy.
"And if possible, I don't want to burden my children or ask for their help because they have their own families now," he said when contacted.
Although his income is inconsistent, Abd Ghani is grateful that there are still those who trust him and wish to use his services.
"In the past, I used to work in computer disposal but switched to repairing refrigerators after a friend, who is also a lecturer, suggested it to me.
"My friend taught me how to repair them. I can also fix washing machines, so I have been doing this work ever since."
Abd Ghani recounted many experiences and challenges he faced while performing his work.
"Once, I was unable to complete a job, so I returned the client's money.
"I have also experienced being stuck in floods due to rising water on the roads.
"However, that is just part of the challenges in my line of work," he said.
When asked about the pictures and clips of him that went viral on social media, Abd Ghani admitted he was surprised, as he never expected to receive such attention.
"I only found out about it after I received many calls from people, saying they wanted to get their refrigerators repaired and informing me they got my phone number from the viral images.
"Some also contacted me to offer donations, which I consider a blessing from Allah.
"I can't repay their kindness. However, I pray that those who help me are blessed with abundance from Allah," he said.