Without Both Hands, Mr. Untung Continues Working as a Railway Guard to Support His Family

Mr. Untung, 54, has spent more than three decades standing guard along a stretch of railway, quietly performing a job many people overlook. Born with a congenital condition that caused his hands not to develop normally, he has lived his entire life facing physical limitations. Yet, those limitations never became a reason for him to stop working or providing for his family.

Since 1990, Mr. Untung has worked as a railway guard, a role that requires long hours of vigilance from morning until night. For his daily work, he earns around 30,000 rupiah. Despite the modest income, he remains the primary provider for his household.

Speaking about his work, Mr. Untung once explained that guarding the railway is not easy, especially given his condition. He acknowledged that tasks often take him longer than others, but he emphasized that responsibility matters more to him than comfort. “As long as I am still able to stand and do my duty, I will keep working,” he said in a calm, steady tone, reflecting a strong sense of commitment rather than complaint.

His journey has not been without hardship. There were moments when his earnings were stolen, leaving him without money for daily necessities. In recalling that experience, Mr. Untung did not express anger. Instead, he described it as one of the many tests he has learned to accept. According to those close to him, he rarely speaks about his struggles unless asked, and even then, he chooses his words carefully, focusing more on endurance than loss.

Social challenges have also been part of his life. Mr. Untung has faced unkind remarks and verbal mockery because of his physical appearance. Rather than responding with resentment, he has consistently chosen silence and perseverance. In conversations, he often redirects attention away from himself, saying that everyone has their own burdens to carry.

Observers note that his strength lies not in physical power, but in consistency and dignity. He does not seek sympathy or special treatment. Instead, he uses what ability he has to fulfill his role and support his family through honest work.

Today, however, age is beginning to take its toll. Mr. Untung admits that his body is not as strong as it once was. While he continues to work, daily tasks now require more effort. At the same time, the condition of his family’s home has become a growing concern. The roof leaks during heavy rain, the wooden walls are worn, and the supporting structure shows signs of weakening.

Local residents say the house needs urgent repairs to ensure it remains safe. Still, Mr. Untung remains focused on his routine, reporting to his post each day as he has done for years. For him, working is not just about income, but about responsibility and self-respect.

Mr. Untung’s story stands as a reminder that perseverance can take many forms. Through decades of quiet dedication, he has shown that limitations do not define a person’s worth, and that resilience often appears in the simplest, most steadfast acts of daily life.