PASIR GUDANG: A 44-year-old 'mualaf' (Muslim convert) was finally accorded the burial rites yesterday, 52 days after he died at the Sultan Ismail Hospital (HSI).
Syukur Low, who is deaf and mute and suffers from physical disabilities due to an accident a few years ago, was laid to rest at the Mutmainah Muslim Cemetery at about 7pm yesterday.
Mohd Izham Mohd Hisham, 30, was thankful and relieved that he was able to claim the body of his neighbour, which was discharged by the HSI's forensic department at 4.20pm.
"Although the weather was gloomy, my neighbour's journey to his final resting place proceeded smoothly.
"Alhamdulillah, everything went went eventhough it is the 52nd day today (since Syukur died at the hospital).
"I was able to participate in the funeral rites including bathing his remains. I am very grateful to all the people, who were involved in the burial ceremony," said Izham, who had known Syukur for a long time since they were neighbours at Block 31 of Taman Cendana here.
Izham had previously made several attempts, including lodging a report with the Pasir Gudang police station and preparing a hearse to claim Syukur's body, but was unable to do so.
At the time, he was told that only next of kin and relatives of Syukur could claim his remains. The situation was complicated since Syukur had no next of kin and no one left after his father died a few years ago.
Taman Cendana Residents Association chairman Shamsul Bahrin Ibrahim said some 30 people attended Syukur's burial ceremony.
"Alhamdulillah, many came at a time when people were rushing home from work.
"That being said, we want to thank the HSI's forensic department, the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAIJ), and other parties who helped facilitate the final arrangements for Syukur today," he said.
Shamsul also thanked members of the public who helped and prayed that Syukur's body could be discharged as soon as possible for him to be accorded his burial rites.
"This matter is not only about religion but also about humanity," he said.