JITRA: ‘I was at first scared of circumcision, but a lot of my friends told me that it would not hurt and that it would merely feel like ant bites,’ said the 31-year-old man who wanted to be known as Alex and was the only non-Muslim to join mass circumcision ceremony involving seven boys aged between five and seven at the Jitra fire station today.
Alex said he had been interested on undergoing the procedure and his Malay friends have been supportive of his decision.
“I came to the fire station three weeks ago after reading a Facebook advertisement on the ceremony and decided to participate.
“Also, the registration fee is cheaper compared to other places.
“I decided to undergo the procedure due for hygienic reasons. In fact, some of my non-Muslim friends had already done so,” he said when met at the station.
Alex said he was thankful to the firefighters who had advised him especially on food that he should avoid and reminded him to have plenty of rest until the wound from the circumcision was fully healed.
Meanwhile, Jitra Fire station chief Mohd Bustan Karudin said the programme was initially organised for the children of firemen, but was later open to public.
He said there were other activities carried out including blood donation drive, booth sale, and fire-extinguishing demonstration.
“We also share fire tips and advice with the public during the event. We hope to continue organising the programme in future,” he said, adding that it was held in collaboration with Jitra Hospital.