Uncle Kittu's love transcends religious, racial barriers

IPOH - Religious and racial differences are not a barrier for K. Kittu, a school security guard, to have a close-knit relationship with Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Bandar Baru Putera students, the majority of whom are Malays.

Fondly known as Uncle Kittu, the 50-year-old Taiping native, who had worked at the school for six years, said he had many cherished memories with the students, making him reluctant to leave them whom he regarded as his own children.

"I can remember hundreds of students by their names, characters, and memories I had with them...some of them always ask me to buy them ice cream and crackers.

"I don’t see it as a burden; in fact, it deepens my connection with those I consider my own children,” he said when met by Bernama at SK Bandar Baru Putera here.

A heartwarming 13-second video of schoolchildren shaking hands with Kittu, hugging him, and presenting him with parting gifts as they bid farewell to him in a ceremony went viral on social media recently.

The farewell ceremony on Nov 30 was organised by the school to express its gratitude and appreciation to Kittu, who will be moving to a new school.

When asked for his secret to be well-liked by schoolchildren, Kittu said he always put his heart into his work without expecting praise or reward from others.

"We must treat students, especially children, sincerely. Sincerity will inculcate a sense of love and respect. It’s also important that we always wear a smile; only then can we enjoy our work,” said the father of four.

On his rapport with teachers and parents, Kittu said he was grateful for the trust placed in him to keep schoolchildren safe.

"The teachers here have never interfered with my work. They put their trust in me and my colleagues to manage traffic and ensure the safe arrival and departure of students from school.

"Parents are all cooperative; they have never complained and always comply with the school safety rules set,” said Kittu, adding that he would remember all the good deeds and memories with the teachers, parents, and children at the school until the end of his life.

Meanwhile, SK Bandar Baru Putera Teacher’s Club chairman Mohd Bazli Ramli said that Kittu was also well-liked by teachers and staff at the school because he was diligent and never complained about the tasks assigned to him.

"He once came to school just to help us organise a school programme, despite the fact that it was not his job. He is always willing to lend a helping hand to us.

"Kittu also always helps parents by ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and taking children to their parents’ vehicles,” he said. - BERNAMA