IPOH: For M Selvaraj, barbering has long been more than a way to earn a living. He has relied on the trade for the past 15 years, especially after an accident forced him to rebuild his life.
This National Month, he is putting that skill to use in a different way by offering free haircuts to people from all walks of life, including the homeless.
His “Free For All” programme, held from 9am to 4pm at his barbershop on Persiaran Bijih Timah here, is expected to provide about 100 complimentary haircuts.
“I believe a barbershop can serve as a small space where people of different ethnic backgrounds come together,” Selvaraj told Bernama.
“There are Malay, Chinese and Indian customers here. While I cut their hair, I see them chatting and enjoying one another’s company, and that is the togetherness I see.”
The initiative also includes the distribution of 100 Jalur Gemilang, while visitors are treated to free food and drinks.
Selvaraj’s connection to barbering stretches back generations. His grandfather started the family barbershop about 50 years ago, and the trade was later passed down through the family.
After completing his SPM, Selvaraj picked up the skill from his uncle and eventually made it his livelihood.
More recently, his work with the non-governmental organisation Bantu Saja opened his eyes to another way his ability could be used. He joined the group in giving haircuts to people experiencing homelessness in Buntong and Silibin – an experience he said left a strong impression on him.
“It was eye-opening for me to see how people without homes were struggling not only to find shelter but also to meet their basic needs,” he said.
“I saw many homeless people with long hair, and some even struggling to find food. As a barber, this is what I can do to help.”
That sense of responsibility is not limited to organised events: Selvaraj has also been giving free haircuts to customers who tell him they cannot afford one.
“Sometimes, customers who are having financial difficulties contact me for a haircut, and I offer my services free of charge. Others come to my shop but don’t have money, but I’m happy to cut their hair for them.”
His empathy for those facing hardship is rooted partly in his own childhood. After his father died, Selvaraj watched his mother raise six children on her own, giving him an early understanding of how difficult it can be for families to make ends meet.
That is one reason he sees National Month not simply as a time for flags and patriotic songs, but as an opportunity to give something back.
“It does not have to involve a lot of money. If we have skills, we can use them, and if we have food, we can share it.
“What matters is helping others within our means. I hope more Malaysians will use what they have to do good and help others in the community.”
