“I started using an artificial leg provided by welfare. That same year, I participated in powerlifting at the Malaysian Paralimpiad Games,” said the 48-year-old, who hails from Taiping.
In 2006 his right leg had to be amputated, too, due to a similar nerve issue. He received another artificial leg from the welfare department two years later.
“After the second amputation, I stayed at home for two years,” Mogan revealed. “But in 2009, I decided to start my own business selling and servicing fire extinguishers.”
This would involve him delivering the goods, mostly to schools around Perak, using a pickup truck he bought in 2010.
Tragedy struck again five years later when he and his older sister, who was also disabled and suffered from similar nerve issues in her legs, were involved in a road accident with a trailer.
“We were on our way back after making a delivery to Kuala Lumpur and the accident happened at the Tapah rest stop,” he recalled.
Mogan’s sister – who had lived with him – as well as his assistant, a Nepali man, died in the crash, while Mogan himself suffered injuries to his head and hands.
“After that, life was hard. The pickup truck was destroyed, and my house was also repossessed. I was unable to service my loans as I couldn’t work much.”
He also got a divorce in 2016 after five years of marriage.
Mogan had to use a motorcycle to keep making fire-extinguisher deliveries, but it was old and would often break down. He resorted to using taxi services, but “this was expensive and made my financial situation worse”.
Additionally, the pandemic took a further toll on his business, leading to a 50% decrease.
Uncle Kentang steps in
Mogan’s plight was highlighted on March 27 by Malaysian activist Kuan Chee Heng, popularly known as Uncle Kentang, who put out a public call for a four-wheeled motorcycle and was answered by a business owner in Penang.
“The motorcycle is being modified for a disabled person. I am so grateful for this help and am looking forward to using it for my business,” Mogan said, adding that the bike would suit deliveries within Taiping.
Still, he has outstanding debts amounting to approximately RM60,000 for two business-related loans, as well as the financing of his vehicles – including the pickup truck – and electrical appliances.
He earns about RM800 monthly, on average, and receives RM450 from welfare. This income goes towards his rent, utilities, and living expenses.
Mogan is appealing for help from the public to settle his outstanding amounts, as well as to buy a four-wheel drive which would allow him to transport more fire extinguishers per trip, especially when it comes to longer distances or bad weather.
Due to his debts, he is unable to take out any new loans for company or personal use. “I want to grow my business so I can earn enough to buy back my house,” he said.
‘A big deal’
Recalling his days as an athlete, Mogan told FMT: “I remember feeling so happy. I also had fun getting to know the other participants.
“When I won, my family was so joyful because they weren’t aware it was a big deal. Furthermore, no one in our family had such an achievement,” he said proudly.
“Back then, I felt like I had a bright future. But after the accident, I feel disappointed because my future looks so bleak and I find it hard to even make a living.”
Those who wish to help Mogan can send a WhatsApp message to FMT’s Helpline at 019-3899839. Please do not call.