By Xu Liangye 1002579924, Yang Ziting 1002578604, Yu ShuXuan 1002578556, Zhang Ming fang 1002579314, Wu Zi Yang 1002476652

“Even though the salary is not high, I still have to do my job properly.”——Uncle Mak

When the neighbourhood quiets down as residents head home, 56-year-old local Chinese security guard Uncle Mak starts his night shift. From the guard post, he monitors entrances, screens visitors and stays alert all night. Though security work seems basic to outsiders, his constant presence brings safety to every household.

Uncle Mak’s night shift lasts from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., and he patrols the estate several times each night. He checks fire extinguishers, ensures corridor lights work, and reports damaged railings promptly.

Uncle Mak has served here for one and a half years. Working in Singapore in his younger days taught him discipline and responsibility. Despite low wages and exhausting overnight shifts, he treats every task with full dedication.

“Even though the salary is not high, I still have to do my job properly,” Uncle Mak said. He stresses the weight of his role, adding, “It is a big responsibility because you never know what will happen next.”

His work involves far more than gate and vehicle checks. He aids seniors, directs delivery riders, helps residents without access cards and settles complaints. When a resident lost belongings, he gathered clues to help find the thief. Locals regard him as reliable, never avoiding others’ troubles.

He records unusual activities in a small notebook, and his detailed logs have helped police solve two minor theft cases. On rainy nights, he lends umbrellas to residents and clears puddles near the gate to prevent slips.

He also defuses late-night family quarrels. Night duty is his hardest trial. “ At night, everyone is sleeping, but I must stay awake and be ready for anything,” he said.

Younger guards often seek his advice, and he freely shares his experience, teaching them that respect for residents comes first. Though his pay barely covers basic needs, he never complains.

“Sometimes residents come to me for small problems, but as long as I can help, I will try my best, ” he shares. Uncle Mak ’ s story proves ordinary workers carry remarkable duties. Beneath his uniform is a humble man silently protecting every family after dark.

Figure 1：Behind the small window of the guard post, Mr. Mak manages records, checks information and keeps watch over the community.

Figure 2: At 56, Mr. Mak continues to stand guard at night, taking his responsibility seriously despite the long hours.

Figure 3：The quiet entrance of the residence becomes Mr. Mak’s workplace when most residents are already resting at home.

Figure 5: From inside the guard post, Mr. Mak remains attentive to the needs of residents, from small requests to serious incidents.