26 September 2010

Disabled entrepreneur can finally pursue his dream

Thursday September 23, 2010

PETALING JAYA: Ng Say Leng was nearly immobile with a worsening muscular dystrophy condition since he suffered a high fever as a year-old toddler.

But now the 31-year-old Internet entrepreneur can continue to pursue his dream of writing a motivational book inspired by his condition as he is now able to buy a motorised wheelchair with money donated by MCA central committee member Datuk Ti Lian Ker.

Ng had tried to seek donations and raise the necessary RM11,500 to purchase a reconditioned US-imported motorised wheelchair by selling five pens for RM10 on social networking site Facebook.

Ng, who lives at the Society for Independent Living Centre, had only managed to raise RM2,000 since July before his plight was noticed by Children’s Wish Society board member Alan Yip who helped spread news of Ng’s plight.
A dream come true: Ti (right, kneeling) handing the funds to Ng at Overseas Restaurant, Armada Hotel, yesterday. Also present are (from left) Beautiful Gate Foundation for the Disabled executive director and pastor Sia Siew Chin, Chua, Selangor MCA chief Dr Kow Cheong Wei, Lee and lawyer Sheah Kok Fah.
“Like anyone with my condition, all I want is to be more independent to pursue what I want to do,” he said in an event where he was symbolically presented with a cheque by Ti.

Ng said the Facebook was a good tool if it is used properly.

“It depends on how we use it. Don’t use it to play games all the time. That would be a waste of time,” he said.

Ti said at first Facebook users did not take notice of Ng’s condition and plea as they thought he was using it to buy luxury items.

“But his is a deserving cause and he needs it because his condition is deteriorating. I want to send a message that a social networking site like Facebook should not be a source of tension and negativity,” he said.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Lee Chee Leong and Deputy Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Chua Tee Yong were present to witnessing the ceremony.

“A caring and sharing spirit is important to our Malaysian society. Malaysians must not lose sight of traditions of welfare and charity,” Lee said.

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