Former para games gold medalist Koh Lee Peng seen crying outside KL Mall
A kind woman took to Threads to seek help for a former national swimmer who now sells tissues outside a shopping mall in Kuala Lumpur.
She posted a heartbreaking video on Threads showing the woman in a wheelchair, holding her forehead and crying uncontrollably while passers-by walked past without noticing her distress.
The emotional scene deeply moved viewers online.
According to the post’s author, the woman has been selling tissues outside the shopping mall for a long time.
Koh Lee Peng is a former swimmer for Malaysia who brought honour to the country on the international stage.
“She represented Malaysia in various tournaments such as the Asean Para Games, where she won gold and silver medals.
“After retiring, she faced financial hardship and personal difficulties.”
The author said Koh currently supports herself by selling tissues around the Bukit Bintang area. Despite her physical disability, she continues to live independently and earn a living on her own.
The author later revealed that Koh’s wheelchair had been damaged in a car accident. The repair costs were reportedly high, which left her overwhelmed and in tears. The author appealed to the public to help ease her burden.
In the comments section, one woman wrote: “My heart breaks seeing her cry like that. Is she unwell? How can we help her?”
Another netizen said the best way to support Koh is by purchasing her products.
The user claimed that some people had previously tried to offer direct financial assistance, but Koh preferred that they buy tissues from her instead of simply giving donations.
“If you see her and want to help, buy from her,” the user wrote.
Another social media user suggested that Koh’s mental well-being may also be affected, which could explain why she is reluctant to accept help from others.
“Something must have triggered her emotionally,” she wrote, adding that Koh may need emotional and mental health support in addition to financial assistance.
Yesterday, the author updated the post, saying that Youth and Sports Minister Taufiq Johari had assisted by providing Koh with a new wheelchair.
Koh, a para swimmer, won seven gold medals and three silver medals at the Asean Para Games between 2001 and 2005.
The Sun Malaysia
