"Don’t just sit around" - 71yo Malaysian Works as a Delivery Rider to Support His Wife & Sick Son

For many people his age, life is usually spent slowing down – enjoying retirement, spending time with family, or simply resting after decades of hard work. But for one 71-year-old Malaysian, his days are still spent on the road, tirelessly completing deliveries as a Grab rider to support the people who depend on him most.

Zakaria Abdul Wahab, affectionately known as “Atok Grab”, joined the Grab platform in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, he initially worked just to earn some extra pocket money, but it soon turned into a full-time job when his son suffered a stroke.

Image Credit: NST

According to Zakaria, before the stroke, his 39-year-old son also worked as a Grab delivery rider and had helped support the family significantly. So when his son became ill, Zakaria described the moment as though he had lost a crucial support system.

As a result, he decided to work harder, not only to support his wife, but also to cover his son’s medical expenses.

He had been involved in an accident while on the job before

Although many would consider the job taxing, especially at his age, Zakaria revealed that he chose it because he finds it flexible and relatively simple compared to other jobs.

“The Grab system doesn’t discriminate based on my age, and the job is fairly easy. All I need to do is pick up the order and deliver it.”

However, like many other jobs, being a Grab delivery rider comes with its risks.

Zakaria was once involved in an accident with a 10-wheeler lorry while on the job. Although the motorcycle he was using at the time was badly damaged, he was grateful to have escaped unharmed. Despite admitting that the experience left a mark on him, it didn’t break his spirit to continue working.

When it comes to his earnings, Zakaria said they depend largely on demand and the weather.

Image Credit: NST

He shared, “The most deliveries I’ve ever done in a day were 20 orders. Sometimes it can be less. If the weather is good, I can earn more than RM100 a day, including tips from customers."

"I’ve never asked for tips. But when I receive them, I think of them as a gift from God.”

Even so, Zakaria admitted he can no longer work long hours like he used to. As he has grown older, he has had to limit his working hours to take care of his health.

A word of advice to the younger generation

Drawing from his life experience, he believes that any job can be learned if a person is willing to try. He also hopes younger people will take away an important lesson—never sit around and do nothing.

“If the job is good, just do it and don’t be ashamed of it. It’s also important not to be too picky with work. Yes, it means more if the job is based on your interests, but don’t just sit around doing nothing,” he said in an interview with Harian Metro.

Additionally, Zakaria expressed hope that the government will simplify aid for senior citizens who are still working. He also hopes that his son will recover.

Featured Image Credit: NST