DIRTY, Dangerous and Difficult workload has become the usual routine for some of the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Urban Services Department workers for the past few decades.
These unsung heroes have contributed their efforts to make Penang island a better place to live in.
Their contributions did not go unnoticed. Twelve of them received awards to mark Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak’s 73rd birthday celebration.
They received their Pingat Bakti Setia (PBS) and Pingat Jasa Kebaktian (PJK) awards respectively during the state’s investiture ceremony in Dewan Sri Pinang today.
Thanking the state and local council, R. Chandrasegaran, 59, could not believe that his sacrifices and hard work were recognised. He was conferred the PBS award.
“A special gratitude to the council for acknowledging my efforts and services to the community.
“It is one of the most important accolades in my life,” said Chandrasegaran, who has been working for the local council for 36 years.
M. Murugiah, 54, who received his PJK award could not hide his joy after being conferred by the head of state.
“I am honoured that my 14 years of hard work were recognised by the authorities. I am involved in most of the drainage cleaning works. It is not an easy task.
“During the floods, I need to work round the clock to clear the mess, but I am proud to serve Penangites,” he said.
Yeoh Kin Weng, 59, could not contain his excitement after getting the PBS award.
“I have been with the council for the past 40 years and I will strive to work harder,” said Yeoh, who is involved in repairing most of the public toilets.
MBPP mayor Datuk Yew Tung Seang, who was present, hoped that the honours given would motivate them to serve the community better.
Meanwhile, Abdul Wahid Ahmad, 59, a staffer of the Urban Services Department, was conferred the PBS award.
He vowed to work harder for the state and the community.
“This is my first time receiving an award for the work I have been doing all these years.
“I thank the local council (MBPP) for trusting and supporting me all these years.
“I will continue to give my best,” Abdul Wahid said.
Abdul Wahid has been working for the local council for 34 years.
Another individual, Abdul Halim Sheriff, 58, was also conferred the PBS award.
He works in the same department as Abdul Wahid.
Abdul Halim dedicated his award to his wife who is ill at home.
“My wife is unwell and I would like to dedicate this happy moment to her.
“This will make her extremely happy.
“Also, I would like to thank MBPP for giving me an opportunity to work 36 years ago.
“I hope to improve my working skills and deliver better results,” Abdul Halim said.
Earlier, the MBPP workers received their awards from Ahmad Fuzi.
Also present were Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his wife Tan Lean Kee, MBPP secretary Datuk A. Rajendran, state executive council members, state assemblymen and state dignitaries.
Story by Edmund Lee and Kevin Vimal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar and Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi