‘IT DIDN’T HURT, JUST FELT LIKE AN ANT BITE’
6-year-old undergoes circumcision with 34 others in Permatang Badak
IT is normal for children to fear getting circumcised, but not 6-year-old Abdul Fatah Amin Shahrum. “It didn’t hurt, just felt like an ant bite.”
Fatah Amin was among 35 children who took part in a mass circumcision event at the Panching state constituency service centre in Permatang Badak here yesterday.
Set to enter Year One next month, Fatah Amin said he wanted to undergo the procedure so that he could lead others in prayers.
“I am here today (yesterday) to get circumcised. I’m not scared because people say it doesn’t hurt, just like an ant bite.
“I’m happy and excited because I feel like a man. People say after you get circumcised, you get to lead others in prayers.
“I will never forget this experience. After this, I will have to go through a confinement period. But it won’t be for long. After that, I can play with my friends again.”
Another 6-year-old, Muhammad Harith Adam Hazrin, said he was prepared for the procedure as his father had told him the benefits in getting circumcised.
“I did feel scared at first, but after the firemen sprayed us with water, I was happy, and I forgot all about feeling scared. I wanted to get circumcised after I watched the Upin Ipin cartoon.”
Panching assemblyman Mohd Tarmizi Yahaya said the event received a good response.
“We are trying to bring back the culture of mass circumcision with the kids escorted by villagers while singing praises for Prophet Muhammad.
“Such events can be beneficial, especially for families who can’t afford the fees.”