In Petaling Jaya, a husband-and-wife team has been helping individuals regain control over their living environments through a unique deep-cleaning service that addresses more than just physical clutter. Muhammad Hafiz Hashim, 36, and his wife Nur Asmiza Abdul Halim, 40, launched their business in 2020 with a focus on assisting clients facing difficult personal and domestic circumstances.
The couple frequently encounters homes in extreme states of neglect, with conditions ranging from severe clutter and unsanitary waste to unusual and distressing scenarios. Hafiz recalled one residence where goats were kept indoors and another where human waste was present alongside a container of blood stored beneath a bed. These experiences have given them insight into the underlying struggles that often cause such neglect.
"Behind every neglected home, there is a story outsiders never see," Hafiz said. Their work has revealed cases involving people dealing with profound challenges such as severe depression, caregiving responsibilities, and social isolation. One woman who sought their help had been turned away by 16 other cleaning services due to the condition of her residence. Another client, a caregiver for a visually impaired and disabled sibling, found little time for household maintenance while managing demanding responsibilities.
The couple approach their service as a form of community support rather than strictly a business venture. Their pricing model reflects this ethos: standard cleaning is charged at RM60 per hour, whereas more complex cases, including hoarding and welfare-related cleanups, are offered on a flexible, pay-what-you-can basis.
Beyond the immediate physical cleanup, Hafiz and Nur Asmiza aim to empower clients by providing guidance on simple home maintenance practices to prevent future deterioration. Their work is designed not only to restore homes but also to help individuals regain dignity, emotional well-being, and the confidence to move forward.
For Hafiz and Nur Asmiza, moments such as when a client breaks down in tears after their home is transformed underscore the profound impact of their efforts. They see themselves as clearing a path to hope, offering clients a renewed sense of peace and the opportunity for a fresh start.