Grandfather, father, uncle, brother-in-law, and breadwinner. At the age of 74, Mr Jaffar bin Ibrahim takes on various roles to feed his family of 14. He works tirelessly as a cleaner at Tanjong Katong Complex, earning a monthly salary of $900 to look after his family, including his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, one of whom is an infant.

Ahmad, 7, was having trouble keeping up with the other children at school when we first met him. It was so much so that he could not read any English.

Ahmad’s problem had nothing to do with his own abilities. In fact, he is a very bright young boy. Rather, it was because he was not getting the parental support and encouragement at home that every child needs.