Kuantan: For most people, the words "embarrassing, filthy, and foul-smelling" would be enough to steer clear of a job. But for Wan Othman Wan Mohd Nor Hasyim, those feelings have long been immunised. Working as a garbage collector for Alam Flora Sdn Bhd for over four years, the 23-year-old has not only grown accustomed to the stigma but has transformed it into a source of quiet pride.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Wan Othman started working as a garbage collector in 2021 at the age of 18. Despite the challenging conditions, including the persistent smell, he has adapted over time and no longer notices it. His night shifts from 9 pm to 6 am are more than just a job; they represent a commitment to sharing the family burden with his father, who is also a cleaner at the same company.

For Wan Othman, the job is a means to support his three school-aged siblings. To make ends meet, he also holds a part-time position at a restaurant during the day. While some may look down on his work, Wan Othman finds value and positivity in it.

He acknowledges that the most challenging part of the job is dealing with residents who make the task more difficult by scattering rubbish. In some instances, homeowners have unreasonable expectations, leading to confrontations. However, Wan Othman also experiences moments of kindness, with residents offering him food and drinks during his shifts.

At just 21, Wan Othman is already planning for his future, aspiring to build a long career with Alam Flora and eventually become a lorry driver. Khairul Hajrin Khairuddin, the operations executive for Alam Flora's Kuantan district, noted that Wan Othman is among ten young employees aged 18 to 23. The district employs 154 garbage collectors who collect significant volumes of waste each day.

Khairul Hajrin highlighted the importance of young, energetic workers for such roles and noted that in developed countries, garbage collectors are often respected and considered essential for maintaining community cleanliness and sustainability.