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81-year-old locksmith continues working in Jerantut
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡พ Malaysia /Culture & Society

81-year-old locksmith continues working in Jerantut

From Utusan Malaysia · () Malay

Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Chong Ah See, an 81-year-old man, continues to work as a locksmith in Jerantut, Malaysia, after 45 years in the trade.
  • He operates his business, Jaffa Marketing Enterprise, daily, viewing his work as his livelihood and a fundamental part of his life.
  • Ah See, who has seven children, emphasizes his independence and ability to support himself, not relying on his offspring for financial assistance.

At 81 years old, Chong Ah See defies the typical retirement narrative, remaining a dedicated locksmith in Jerantut, Malaysia. For over 45 years, he has been crafting and repairing keys, a profession he continues to pursue daily from his business, Jaffa Marketing Enterprise, located on Jalan Tahan.

Ah See views his work not merely as a source of income but as an integral part of his existence. "I've been doing this job for over 45 years. As long as I have the strength, I will continue to work because this is my livelihood," he stated. His services range from making basic keys for as little as RM5 to more complex ones costing over RM60, though he does not undertake safe key duplication due to a lack of specialized skills.

I've been doing this job for over 45 years. As long as I have the strength, I will continue to work because this is my livelihood.

โ€” Chong Ah SeeAh See explains his long-term commitment to his locksmith profession.

Born on May 5, 1945, in Kampung Baru, Jerantut, Ah See is a father of seven. Despite his large family, he is resolute in his independence. "I can still earn my own living. I don't need to ask my children for money. As long as I have the strength, I will keep working," he affirmed.

He rents his business premises for approximately RM300 per month and expresses gratitude that his earnings are sufficient to cover his daily needs. His continued dedication to his craft at an advanced age serves as an inspiration, showcasing a commitment to self-reliance and a passion for his profession.

I can still earn my own living. I don't need to ask my children for money. As long as I have the strength, I will keep working.

โ€” Chong Ah SeeAh See emphasizes his self-sufficiency and determination to continue working.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.