#SHOWBIZ: Melaka's Dondang Sayang legend bedridden and ailing at 84

KUALA LUMPUR: After four decades of commitment to Dondang Sayang, Melaka's revered arts figure Datuk Mohd Baharim Mohd Sharip, 84, now resides bedridden at his Kampung Bertam Ulu residence. Once a dynamic figure performing violin, vocals, and poetry exchanges on stage, he now necessitates comprehensive help for basic daily tasks.

Renowned as a singer, musician, pantun performer, and composer, he amassed over 2,000 pantun during his involvement with the heritage art form. Sharip's accolades include the National Living Heritage Figure (WAKOH) award and the Boh Cameronian Lifetime Achievement Award. Daughter Junaidah, 54, is now solely responsible for her father's care following her mother's demise last year.

She revealed to Harian Metro that Sharip's health had deteriorated over four months, starting with a persistent cough and fever. His condition has since worsened, leaving him unable to perform everyday activities, including eating and drinking. Junaidah has had to halt her kuih-selling business due to her father's frailty. She emphasized that caring for her father is her top priority for the time being, entrusting her livelihood to divine providence.

Junaidah's elder sister, Hashimah, 58, assists on occasion; their youngest sibling had previously cared for their father until his passing two years ago. Sharip's final performance occurred a year ago in Melaka City alongside notable national artistes, including Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza.