Mahani enjoys her job as a water purification technician.
WHEN Mahani Jaffar took up a job servicing water purifying systems in homes and offices in Sibu, little did she know that she would make new friends from other races.
“In January this year, when I applied to be a water purification technician, I was a bit worried about the response of customers as I am a Muslim woman,” Mahani, 37, said.
Almost eight months into the job, what surprised her was that the customers respected and welcomed her, regardless of race.
Mahani underwent a week-long on-the-job training in Kuching before being assigned to service her first water purifying system on her own.
Her apprehension at how customers would treat her turned out to be groundless as they were friendly and welcoming.
“They always chat with me and seek my help to report to the company should their units have faulty parts,” she said.
Mahani’s job requires her to change the filter system and clean the unit, a task that usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
On average, she visits eight to 10 homes and offices a day. She is also a rare sight in the job as most of the field staff are men.
A mother of three young children, Mahani took up the job to supplement the family income.
“I was doing other jobs previously but stopped for a year to take care of my children.
“With the rising cost of living, I had no choice but to start working again,” she said, adding that her husband is a mechanic in Bintulu.
Mahani also said she enjoys her job and does not find it tiring.
“The tools that I carry with me are not heavy.
“My job is also not that difficult and mainly involves cleaning, washing and changing filters,” she said.
