A Relationship Built on Welfare Assistance
An old bicycle, a late-night call, and a request for welfare assistance sparked an unlikely friendship between Duyong assemblyman Noor Helmy Abdul Halem and Vong Fook Hoi. What began as a search for government aid has evolved into a bond that extends beyond political lines, with Vong now hoping Helmy wins another term as the Duyong assemblyman.
The connection started in 2020 when Vong approached Helmy for help with old-age assistance. At the time, Vong had been applying for aid since he was 60 years old without success. Helmy, who was serving as a councillor with the Malacca Historic City Council then, met with Vong, who was 82 years old at the time.
According to reports, Vong first approached Helmy with little reason to trust a Barisan Nasional (BN) politician. Although BN had unexpectedly returned as part of the state government in Melaka in 2020, many residents remained unhappy with the coalition. The appeal for welfare assistance ultimately brought the two men together.
Personal Acts and Community Trust
The friendship continued to develop after Helmy was elected Duyong assemblyman in the 2021 state election. Helmy credited Vong, now 88 years old, with helping him understand the concerns of Chinese residents and bridging a prior "trust deficit" between the community and the government.
Helmy noted that he bought Vong a new bicycle after noticing his old one was in poor condition. Vong recounted an instance where he called Helmy at 1:30 am while unwell, and Helmy woke up to pick him up for medical care.
Vong has rejected suggestions that his support is motivated by money. He stated that Helmy genuinely cares for people of all races, including Chinese, Malays, and Indians. Helmy affirmed that he has never paid Vong anything and said Vong joined his campaigns out of trust.
Public Engagement and Future Goals
Helmy uses social media videos to explain local services and correct misconceptions among residents. One example involves grass-cutting standards, where Helmy clarified that grass should not exceed 5cm after cutting.
Helmy expressed hope to win another term to complete unfinished work in Duyong. This includes a health clinic first initiated by his predecessor, Damian Yeo of the DAP.