Sewing patchwork from upcycled material keeps 92YO Malaysian great-grandma active
A 92-year-old Malaysian woman, Cheong Moi Chai, continues to lead an active life by sewing patchwork floor mats from upcycled fabric. Her work provides both a modest income and a sense of purpose, highlighting the importance of functional aging.
Why it matters
The story highlights the intersection of sustainable living, economic necessity for the elderly, and the benefits of maintaining active hobbies in old age.
At 92, Cheong Moi Chai still has work to do.
Cheong turns discarded fabric into colourful, practical floor mats. Photo: Thevi Elumalai Most days, she sits at her trusted sewing machine in her home in Triang, Pahang, turning scraps of fabric into colourful patchwork floor mats, cushion covers, potholders and blankets.
For the great-grandmother of six, sewing is more than a pastime to fill the hours.
It is a skill she has relied on for nearly 80 years – first to help put food on the table and raise three daughters, and now to earn some pocket money while giving unwanted fabric a second life.
“I like this because it keeps me busy. Some days, I can sew two floor mats. It takes me about four hours to sew two pieces,” says Cheong.
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