Couple offers new hope to ex-convicts through car wash jobs

In Kangar, Perlis, a couple is offering a new lease on life to former convicts and individuals with disabilities through employment at their car wash business, Aza Carwash. Mohd. Halimi Muhamed, 39, and Nur Fitriyana Ghani, 34, believe that past mistakes should not hinder opportunities for a better future.

Their initiative provides jobs for ex-offenders (ODP) and people with disabilities (OKU), offering them not only a source of income but also a chance to rebuild their confidence and rejoin society. The car wash, located on Jalan Stadium Tuanku Syed Putra, also provides essential facilities for its employees.

Currently, Aza Carwash employs over 30 people across two branches in Kangar and Arau. Out of these, 23 are former convicts, and two are individuals with disabilities. Mohd. Halimi, who started the business in 2017, emphasized his goal to help these individuals reform and lead improved lives. "I take them to work because I want to help educate them to be good," he stated.

The couple provides accommodation, three meals a day, and clothing for their employees. Workers are assigned specific tasks and work from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Many have shown significant positive changes, with some requesting to continue their employment even after their parole period concludes. The business handles between 60 to 100 vehicles daily, depending on the season.

Initially, Halimi and his wife harbored concerns about potential issues when hiring former convicts, given some public perceptions. However, they remained determined. "Alhamdulillah, most of them listen and follow instructions well," Halimi said. He plans to continue hiring individuals from this group to help them secure brighter futures. Nur Fitriyana added that the ODP employees are generally easy to manage and follow directions, with ages ranging from their 20s to 60s.

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