Tribute to a young hero

THE recent death of fireman Muhammad Adib Mohd Kassim came at a time when ordinary citizens like me were assuming that he was on the road to recovery based on the increasing number of visitors allowed to visit him in hospital.

At frequent press conferences given by Muhammad Adib’s doctors, there had never been any mention that his health was worsening. Thus when the news of his death was announced, the whole nation was stunned.

Almost everyone who learnt about his passing immediately went online to express their condolences, while some even urged the authorities to bring those responsible to book. People were both sad and angry. Some felt that the mob who beat up Muhammad Adib for merely carrying out his duty as a fireman should not be let off the hook and forgiven easily.

We personally feel the same way. The authorities should carry out an in-depth and transparent investigation so that those criminals are punished for their offences under existing laws as Muhamad Adib’s death will soon be classified as murder.

This is where we, as responsible Malaysian citizens, regardless of race, religion and background, should look at ourselves and ask why a dispute between two parties could have escalated into violence and the loss of a life.

Anger, once it takes over our senses, is akin to a robot that is being hacked and goes around killing innocent lives although its initial mission was the opposite.

Muhammad Adib is no longer with us, but his bravery makes him a hero in our eyes. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

GREGORY KONG & FAMILY THEVALINGAM SIVALINGAM & FAMILY Cheras, Selangor