
K. Santharan, a 68-year-old security guard, captured netizens’ hearts after a TikTok video showed him holding the hand of a kindergarten student and guiding her to the school gate where her guardian awaited. The touching moment highlighted his dedication to all students, regardless of ethnicity.
“I see all of them as my grandchildren, whether they’re Malay, Chinese, or Indian,” said Santharan, who expressed surprise at the video’s viral attention. “I was just doing my job.”
Santharan explained that he enjoys helping students, especially during dismissal, when teachers are often busy. “I hold their hands, walk them to their cars, and help them cross the road. I think of my granddaughter when I see them,” he shared.
Parents and teachers trust Santharan, and many show appreciation with small tokens like food and drinks. “As long as I can, I will continue working here,” said the father of two, who transitioned from 25 years in hospital maintenance to security work five years ago.
Nurkasmedah Abdullah, who posted the video, intended it as a keepsake of her daughter’s first school day. “I was touched seeing him hold her hand, just like a grandfather. He shows the same care to all the students,” she said. #tazhalmedia