Former soldier forced to borrow money for chronic illness treatment
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A former soldier in Malaysia is struggling with chronic kidney, liver, and lung complications.
- He relies on an RM800 monthly pension, which is insufficient to cover his dialysis treatments, daily expenses, and his daughter's medical needs.
- The family is appealing for financial assistance to manage his ongoing medical costs and daily living expenses.
Mohd. Ezral Abd. Razak, a 37-year-old former soldier from Kampung Tanjung Gahai, Jelai, Malaysia, faces immense hardship following his discharge nine years ago. He suffers from kidney failure, liver complications, and lung disease, forcing him to undergo dialysis three times a week at Lipis Hospital. The frequent treatments and travel costs strain his finances, compelling him to borrow money from relatives. His RM800 monthly military pension barely covers basic household needs, bills, and his two children's education, leaving little for medical expenses.
The family's struggles are compounded by the health of their youngest daughter, 6-year-old Nurul Darina Aysha, who has epilepsy and requires regular hospital visits. Mohd. Ezral's wife, Nurul Bazilah Abdul Wahab, 38, works at a canteen for RM25 a day and sells burgers in the evenings to supplement their income. She also faces challenges in providing for their other daughters, 10-year-old Nurul Aulia Ramadhani and 8-year-old Nurul Aaira Afeeya, covering school expenses like uniforms, shoes, and stationery, in addition to their youngest daughter's medical care.
Mohd. Ezral, who served in the 8th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment, now lives with his in-laws as he is unable to work due to his debilitating illnesses. The family is seeking financial aid to manage the escalating costs of treatment and daily living. Those wishing to help can contact Mohd. Ezral directly at 013-500 7380 or donate to his CIMB account: 7036864354.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.