As Malaysians, living overseas can seem like a dream come true. But we seem to forget that life isn’t always a bed of roses, even for people overseas.
Daniel Wu (吳彥祖) and Daniel Dae Kim (김대현) are offering US$25,000 as a reward for information about an individual who assaulted an elderly man in broad daylight. The 91-year-old Asian man had been walking in Oakland’s Chinatown on 31st January when someone shoved him to the ground.
According to Kim, the individual and his associates had also assaulted two other seniors in Oakland. “The number of hate crimes against Asian Americans continues to skyrocket, despite our repeated pleas for help,” he stated. “The crimes are too often ignored and even excused. Remember #VincentChin. Remember #VinchaRatanapakdee.”
“We must do more to help the literally thousands of Americans who have suffered at the hands of this absolutely senseless violence.” Wu added in his own post. “We must take a stand and say, ‘no more’. Please help us bring this criminal to justice.” This isn’t the first time Wu has stepped in to plea with the public. Previously, the “Tomb Raider” star offered US$15,000 for information about another assault on a 90-year-old woman. Thankfully, the two teenagers responsible were arrested later.
In addition to the video, both stars also posted a picture of the assailant’s front and back. But the stars aren’t the only ones concerned. According to Carl Chan, president of the Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce, Oakland’s Metropolitan Bank has stepped in to raise the reward to US$30,000. The Oakland Police Department will be increasing patrols in the area and encourage other victims to report to them.
The Oakland Police Department say that they have identified a suspect that has been in custody on unrelated charges since the 1st. However, they continue to encourage their community members to “remain vigilant at all times”.
Wu stated in other post that Chinatown seniors are “afraid to go outside” but there are efforts being made to help escort them around the town. “This is a resilient community and there are many efforts to help which I’m looking forward to reporting on soon,” he added.
Sources: China Press, Vulture, YourCentralValley.com, Instagram
