In a world where professional success often demands personal sacrifices, 56-year-old Moses Abraham chose a different path, one paved with purpose, presence, and love for his family.
For years, Moses worked as a long-haul trailer driver, earning a lucrative income in the logistic industry. But the long hours on the road meant precious time lost with his family, something that began to weigh heavily on him after he and his wife, S.Tanggam, started their family over two decades ago.
“I wanted to be present and watch my three children grow up”.
In a bold and selfless move, Moses gave up his well-paying job and made the switch to public sanitation, joining his wife of over 20 years, Tanggam, who has world tireless as a street sweeper in Kota Tinggi.
A New Purpose in Public Hygiene
Now employed by SWM Environment, a waste management company, Moses has taken on various roles over the years, from operating compactor trucks to now driving a 15-tonne roll-on roll-off lorry. His daily tasks focus on managing market waste and assisting in bulk waste collection across the Kota Tinggi district.
Though the work in physically demanding and not without challenges, Moses says he never regretted his decision.
“There were times when I felt frustrated by the public’s poor hygiene habits. But I have no regrets because I got to be with my family”.
His wife, 48-year-old Tanggam, said it didn’t take much persuasion to encourage him to consider the shift.
“He has always been family-oriented. I remember feeling relieved when he agreed to join me. We could work together, raise our kids together, it made life more meaningful”, she said.
Life as a Team, At Work and at Home
The couple’s days begin early at 6:30 a.m. as they alternate preparing their youngest child for school before heading off to work. While Moses begins his collection rounds, Tanggam carries out sweeping duties in the busy areas like Kota Besar and Taman Kota Jaya.
Their teamwork extends beyond their household. Together, they serve the community.
“It is common to see people throwing rubbish out of their cars, even when bins are nearby”.
Their years of service did not go unnoticed. On 17th June, in conjunction with Global Cleaner’s Day, Moses and Tanggam were among the sanitation workers honoured by SWM Environment for their dedication.
“We hold the celebration annually to appreciate the crucial role played by sanitation workers in maintaining a clean environment, promoting sustainability and safeguarding public well-being,” said SWM Environment’s corporate general manager, Mohd Norlisam Mohd Nordin.
Its a story that resonates far beyond the streets they clean. At its core, it is a story about prioritizing what truly matters, family, community, and the quiet strength of those who chooses service over status.
As their children begin to chart their own paths, two now working and one still in school, Moses and Tanggam’s example of humility and resilience stands as a powerful reminder, that success isn’t just measured by income, but impact, integrity and the love shared along the way.
Sources: Weird Kaya
