Red3vil: Uncle Ting Tong’s ‘monumental’ work

Street performer Roslee Yusof does whatever it takes to provide for his children, whether taking orders at his roti canai stall or posing as a statue to amuse the public.

Roslee Yusof, also known as Uncle Ting Tong, wakes up to another day at his small flat in Kota Damansara, accompanied by his cat who takes a quick look out the window.

For many weeks during the movement control order period, he sold roti canai to make up for the income he would normally get posing as a statue for people to take photographs with. Now, he's ready to hit the streets again.

Uncle Ting Tong spends time with his children, Nurizwani, Nurismawati and Muhammad Nirwan. All three suffer from Thalassemia, a type of inherited blood disorder.

All dressed up for work, Roslee covers his son with a blanket before leaving the house.

The soldier leaves his home to answer the call of duty later at night: entertaining diners in Kota Damansara.

Outside his flat, Uncle Ting Tong demonstrates what he will be doing later: paying a tribute to frontliners by roleplaying as a toy soldier.

Roslee in combat position outside a food court in Uptown Kota Damansara.

Uncle Ting Tong is a big hit with both young and old, who are eager to pose for a picture with the toy soldier.

Roslee also operates a roti canai stall at the same location, which helps him earn extra income. This was especially handy when street performances were banned during the partial lockdown.

This top hat doubles as Roslee's collection bag for tips from the public after a night of performing.