Free services for the dead: A Rembau NGO's contribution to community

REMBAU: When Rembau Volunteer Squad first began operating as a non-governmental organisation (NGO) offering free hearse van services, many were oblivious to it. But now, nearly five years later, its 34-year-old founder, Ibrahim Hamzah finds himself overwhelmed with requests, sacrificing time with his family to ensure that every entrusted task is carried out perfectly.

Set up in 2018, Ibrahim used his own working van for the hearse services the volunteer group offered. He now has five vans.

"In the early days of our establishment, many were not happy to hear about the free services I offered because it seemed to hinder the income of those offering paid funeral-hearse services. However, now the community, especially in Rembau, is starting to recognise and accept us.

"The current challenge, however, is the lack of permanent volunteers, which forces me to manage all the tasks as requested by the next-of-kin," he said when approached.

Ibrahim, who works as a construction contractor, said he is now even afraid to go on vacations with his family because he is worried that there will be no volunteers to manage the funerals.

"We cannot predict death; it can happen at any time, day or night. We must always be ready at all times.

"I also dare not go on vacation to distant locations during holidays. Furthermore, we now also offer services to bathe (Islamic washing ritual of deceased bodies), handle and transport the deceased," he said.

In addition, Ibrahim stated that everything he handles is free of charge and there are no hidden fees, but he is grateful because he always feels blessed with sustenance and ease from God.

"Usually, the family will give a small token. It depends on them; there is no fixed amount. Some people also contribute funds," he said.

He added that he is now the only full-time volunteer after two of his active squad members recently passed away.

"In reality, many volunteers offer themselves, but most of them have their own commitments. If there are individuals in and around Rembau who are interested and able to commit, they can contact me," he said.

Related Articles