KAMPAR: The passing of 37-year-old Public Works Department (PWD) officer Mohamad Khairul Hakim Hamidi has left a void not only in the hearts of his family but also in the community he served tirelessly.
The father of three, who hailed from Kampung Bukit in Naka, Pokok Sena, had spent over two years working in Langkawi after many years of service in Jitra.
His brother, Muhammad Nasri, 51, described him as a dependable and selfless individual who was always ready to lend a helping hand, a sentiment echoed by family, friends, and neighbours.
"He was always willing to help others, no matter the time or effort required.
"Everyone who knew him, whether they were villagers or childhood friends, can attest to his kindness," he said when met at the Kampar Hospital's Forensic Unit.
Muhammad Nasri, who currently resides in Rawang, Selangor, also reminisced about his youngest brother among six siblings, recalling his devoted care for their late mother, especially during her final days.
"Two years ago, before our mother passed away, he was the one who cared for her the most. He was always there for the family.
"Our mother died on Nov 9, two years ago, and now he passed away on Nov 15 (yesterday).
"I will never forget his role as the primary caregiver for his children, often stepping in to manage the household while his wife, a customs officer, worked night shifts.
"He raised his children with so much love and attention. They were very attached to him," he said, adding that the deceased left behind three children, aged between 6 and 12.
Muhammad Nasri added that the last time he spoke to his brother was two days ago, during which he mentioned he would be joining a team-building programme for three or four days.
"That was our last conversation. The last time I met him was two months ago in Kampung Bukit, our hometown.
"His passing is a significant loss, especially for his young children. It's heartbreaking to think about them. They're still so young and relied on him for everything," he added.
Muhammad Nasri added that the family had sought permission from Mohamad Khairul Hakim's wife to have him laid to rest at a Muslim cemetery in Kampung Bukit, Naka.
"The body will be taken to Masjid Ar-Rayyan in Kampung Bukit before burial, and I hope the process will go smoothly for him," he said, holding back tears.
It was reported that continuous rain, which caused the water level in Sungai Jahang to rise rapidly, is believed to have caused a rafting boat carrying six PWD members and one guide to overturn yesterday.
District police chief Superintendent Mohamad Nazri Daud said all the passengers were swept away by the strong currents, and three victims could not be rescued as they drowned.
The other victims were identified Muhammad Ikram Abdul Bari, 29, from PWD Langkawi, while the female victim, Suhaili Mat Saad, 47, was with PWD Seberang Perai Tengah.