A 58-year-old Malaysian Chinese bachelor who fostered three Muslim brothers has been appointed OrphanCare Foundation's (OCF) advocate.
The story of Michael Tong – better known as Uncle Mike – who raised the three orphans into adulthood went viral in 2024.
That heartwarming story came to life in a movie, “Abah Saya Uncle Mike” directed by Ezrie Ghazali a year later.
At a media conference held at the non-profit organisation’s headquarters in Bukit Gasing, Petaling Jaya, (OCF) chairman Tan Sri Faizah Mohd Tahir said that Tong’s role is to raise awareness that the family-based care model, instead of institutionalised care, is the most ideal for vulnerable children.
Established in 2008, OFC's motto is that no child should be abandoned or denied the love and care of a family.
The organisation helps couples in Malaysia to navigate the adoption process.
They offer counselling for adoptive parents, foster carers and those involved in reintegrating children from institutions into families.
“We came to know about Tong through the movie. And when he told us his story, it was clear that his experience and feelings were very much in line with what we are championing,” said Faizah.
