Shahrul Nizam finds purpose behind the wheel after paralysis

Shahrul Nizam Kamil, a 36-year-old man, lost the use of his legs in a workplace accident in 2016 when a heavy iron structure fell on him while he was repairing a lorry engine. Despite the injury, he has found a new purpose in life by volunteering as a hearse van driver, transporting bodies for free. Six years after the accident, Shahrul began volunteering as a hearse van driver.

He adapted a multipurpose vehicle belonging to his late father-in-law so he could drive using his hands, utilizing metal rods connected to the accelerator and brake pedals. Shahrul's wife, Nor Lishah Anita Abdul Hamid, often accompanies him to help with tasks that are difficult for him, such as getting in and out of the van. He manages his own physical needs carefully by using a catheter and urine bag while driving.

Shahrul volunteers under the Kuala Nerus branch of Pertubuhan Amal Komuniti Besut, and his journeys have taken him to various states in Malaysia, including Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Johor, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Pahang. He has even driven for nearly 24 hours on a single trip. Shahrul has faced challenges, such as breakdowns on the East-West Highway in Perak and the East Coast Expressway 2, but these experiences have only strengthened his resolve to continue serving others.

He and his wife initially feared the work, but they have come to view every deceased person with the same care they would give a family member. As long as Shahrul is able to drive and there are people who need this service, he will keep going.