Malek Maulud

Malek was my senior at MCKK. What I remember most about him at KK was that he was sent to DC (Detention Class) almost every week. He must have held the record for being sent to DC most most number of times. Either him or Moideen Koyammu. I don't know what he did after MC but our paths crossed when I was at Time Engineering. My predecessor, MJI, recruited him and he frequently came up to see me just to talk cock. Malek always has a smile on his face and always seem to be easy-going and gets along with everyone. His was a humble job, somewhere in the Accounts Dept. but I always had the impression that this guy was brilliant and had character, and that fate could have dealt him a better set of cards with which he could have attained a higher station in life. I learnt later that he has nine kids, moved to PD a few years ago, had a bypass last year and since losing his job with a software house, has been struggling to make ends meet through various means.

Today, I found out he suffered a stroke yesterday. I called his son, also an old boy, who I met recently to find out his condition. It didn't sound too good and I drove down to Seremban Hospital, 3rd class ward. He is in a coma. Only his lungs are still functioning. The brain hemorrhage is too severe for any operation to be useful.

His wife was calm and collected by his bedside, patiently explaining to me his prognosis and that many friends have called enquiring his condition, offering prayers and support. You could tell she was already building resolve to continue life without her beloved husband, making plans to provide for her large brood, some of which are still in school. Her frozen food business is doing fine. Atarik (eldest son's employer) has ordered some. Anas (important person in MARDI) has offered to help. Malek's business activities need to be followed through. She has to settle something PERKESO, etc.

I am quite sure they'll be alright. God provides for all His subjects, somehow. Rich or poor, it's the same. Everyone has 24 hours of existence per day in this life. The greater the pain, the bigger the pleasure upon relief. Any food will do just fine when you are hungry but when you are not, servings from a fancy French restaurant might be difficult to swallow. Yup, I am sure they'll do alright, albeit without the Ipods, X-boxes, fancy cars and expensive restaurants in their lives.

Just got the call. He has passed on. Innadillahiwainnaillahirrajiun.