Halfway home goes a long way

Norhazwani (centre, in pink tudung) has been in the orphanage since she was 16. She has a certificate in child care and now lives in the halfway home. She works at the orphanage, taking care of the babies and children.

Halfway homes for youths who leave orphanages on turning 18 are hard to come by in Malaysia.

The Teratak Kasih halfway home in Sungai Buloh was set up early this year as there was a realisation that youths still need assistance, support and guidance after turning 18.

It was set up by the Rumah Kasih Harmoni Paya Jaras orphanage.

Teratak Kasih founder Jamaluddin Wahab, 38, said his own life experience spurred him to set up the halfway home.

Mohamad Akmal (left) and Mohamad Fakrunwazi have received certificate-level qualifications and plan to find better jobs and live independently.

“When they leave the orphanage, youths are without family support and are easily influenced into drug-related activities, gangsterism, become mat rempit and some even get involved in prostitution.

“I do not want them to suffer so I created this halfway home,” said Jamaluddin, who also manages the Rumah Kasih Harmoni Paya Jaras orphanage.

He said all the youths lived at the halfway home on their own volition.

The halfway house, one for boys and another for girls, is located close to the orphanage.
Brothers Mohd Akmal Mohd Kori, 22, and Mohamad Fakrunwazi Mohd Kori, 20, are among the home’s 10 residents.

The brothers, who were 13 and 11 respectively when they were sent to Rumah Kasih Harmoni, moved to the halfway home when they turned 18.

“My brother and I are from Baling, Kedah, and our family is very poor.

“I am glad we were able to stay in the halfway home and have managed to get some skills certificate.