Singapore goalkeeper Hassan Sunny donates part of money from China fans to Muhammadiyah Welfare Home

“It’s not easy – if you sit down and listen to their experience, and the boys facing difficulties (such as) issues of not having your own home and a shelter,” added Hassan.

He told CNA he also chatted with some of the home’s residents, telling them that “everyone has their own dark past, but you shouldn’t stray away from being a good Muslim”.

“They know it’s not easy being here. Sometimes they feel they don’t have much of a choice. So I said this is the best place to be at because of the support (the home) gives them. To always see the positives in these kind of situations.”

Hassan presented his donation in the form of a cheque to Rahmatunnisa Abdul Majeed, the Head of Home at Muhammadiyah Welfare Home. 

The news of Hassan’s donation came unexpectedly, Mdm Rahmatunnisa said. “In fact, it was shocking news for us.”

“I believe in the spirit of paying it forward,” she said. “We have gone through certain patches in our lives. I think this is one example of a deed where you actually make a difference to the life of others.”