KUCHING: In a tragic incident, 33-year-old Mohamad Syafiq Mohamad Ali Hanaffian suffered severe burns while attempting to rescue a 6-year-old boy from a house fire in Batu Kawa.
Despite Syafiq’s selfless act, the fire proved too intense, leaving him with third-degree burns covering 75 per cent of his body.
After three months of hospitalisation at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH), during which he spent 62 days in induced sleep, Syafiq has returned home.
However, his recovery remains a prolonged process, with daily struggles and frequent visits to SGH for dressing changes.
Living in a modest Stutong apartment with his mother and two siblings, Syafiq’s family faces financial challenges.
His mother, a kitchen helper, supports the household income, while his siblings try to supplement it by selling nasi lemak. The burden of expensive medical bills exacerbates their financial strain.
The fateful incident occurred in mid-August when Syafiq, returning from prayers, heard desperate cries from a burning house. Rushing to help, he entered the inferno to rescue the trapped child, resulting in his severe injuries.
Despite the apparent lack of reward for his heroic act, non-governmental organisation Hope Place recognises Syafiq’s bravery. Providing support in the form of adult diapers and special milk supplements, Hope Place acknowledges the sacrifice made by Syafiq.
Syafiq, a former ‘odd job’ man for surau and a volunteer with Sarawak’s Civil Defence Force (APM) during the 2021 pandemic, exemplifies the spirit of altruism.
While his story initially seems despairing, Hope Place encourages reflection, emphasising that positive change begins with individual actions.
For those willing to contribute, donations are welcomed by Hope Place and Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK). Contact them at 082-505987 for more information, or make direct contributions to the bank account MBB: 511289001160.
