KLUANG: True friendship is often found not in grand gestures but in quiet devotion.
This is reflected in M. Devi, who spent nights sleeping by her friend’s hospital bed when the latter was hospitalised for asthma about two months ago.
For five days, she stayed at the hospital just to make sure 74-year-old Fatimah Ibrahim received the care, comfort and companionship she needed most.
The friendship between the two women began four years ago when Devi, 63, frequented a nearby food court where Fatimah operated a stall selling traditional kuih.
“After leaving my job in Singapore due to health reasons, I had nothing much to do at home, so I spent time at my friend’s stall at a nearby food court.
“Fatimah’s stall was next to it. Sometimes, I would chat with her to pass the time.
“Our friendship bloomed naturally as I got to know her better,” Devi said.
Since then, Devi has regularly visited Fatimah, who lives alone.
Devi has also been sending her for hospital check-ups and treatments.
“Living alone, especially at this age, can be difficult and lonely at times. I just want to make sure she has someone to talk to and rely on in times of need.
“At the same time, Fatimah is also keeping me company, and I really enjoy our random chats about life and simple day-to-day experiences.
“I think that is what friendship is all about – having someone who is willing to quietly and sincerely care for you through simple acts, and a person you can talk to about anything,” said the mother of two.
As for Fatimah, she now makes kuih at home to supply to small businesses, and Devi helps her buy the ingredients.
She said she is grateful to have a friend like Devi.
“Thanks to Devi, I can still earn a living despite my poor health. She means a lot to me and I have no words to express how thankful I am.
“For some people, what she did might be simple gestures, but they mean a lot to me.
“I have poor eyesight and have been struggling to walk lately.
“I do not know what my life would be like without her,” she added.
