KUCHING: As Mother’s Day approaches, Hope Place Kuching has shared a deeply moving story of love, loss and resilience involving a family in Sungai Tengah, Matang, who are facing the occasion without their pillar of strength.
Mohamad Firdaus Mohamad Rasuli, 40, is now raising his three children alone following the passing of his wife, Rafidah, in February – just months after she gave birth to their youngest child.
Rafidah had experienced severe headaches after delivering baby Hazriq. Despite seeking medical attention, her condition remained undiagnosed before her sudden passing, leaving the family devastated.
“We were planning to do further tests on her condition but there wasn’t enough time,” Firdaus said in a statement.
Firdaus, who has been paralysed from the waist down since a motorbike accident in 2021, is unable to work and currently survives on a monthly RM500 assistance from Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) and social welfare support.
Despite his physical limitations, he remains committed to caring for his children, aged five months, 14, and 15.
In the wake of their mother’s passing, the children have stepped into new roles within the household.
The eldest daughter, 14-year-old Hazanatul, had cared for her mother during her final days and continues to manage household responsibilities, including cooking.
Her older brother, 15-year-old Hazziq, admits the emotional toll has been overwhelming.
“Everything happened so suddenly. It’s still hard to express what I feel. But I need to be strong – for my family, especially my baby brother,” he said.
Despite their circumstances, both Hazziq and Hazanatul remain exemplary students. They have received multiple academic awards and serve as school prefects, balancing their studies with the demands of caring for their infant sibling.
Their grandmother from Telaga Air also provides support whenever possible, helping the family manage daily needs and childcare for the infant.
Rafidah is remembered as the backbone of the family – known for her dedication, resilience, and efforts in contributing to the household through homemade kuih sales while also caring for her husband after his accident.
Hope Place Kuching has been supporting the family since 2021 with food aid and baby formula, and continues to extend assistance during their time of need.
Though Rafidah is no longer present, her legacy endures through the strength and perseverance of her children.
This Mother’s Day, the family will not celebrate in the traditional sense, but will honour her memory through quiet resilience and enduring love.
For more information, Hope Place or Persatuan Kebajikan Harapan Kuching (PKHK) can be reached at 082-505987 or 013-5672775.
All donations are welcome and receipts will be given upon request.
Donation can be made directly to their bank account MBB: 511289001160 or through their facebook page to get their Sarawak Pay / S PAY GLOBAL QR code.
