Father Finds Solace As Surau Honouring Slain Son Thrives

By Muhamad Adzhar Tajuddin

TAPAH, May 5 (Bernama) -- Religious activities at Surau Al-Fahmi in Kampung Poh Tambahan near Bidor have become a balm for a father's heart following the death of his son, Constable Ahmad Azza Fahmi Azhar, who was killed in a bloody attack at Ulu Tiram police station in Johor two years ago.

Azhar Khaiden, 56, said the surau named after his son has now become a focal point for locals to perform their five daily prayers and a hub for spiritual activities and community gatherings.

"This surau was built in August 2024 and started operating in March last year. Since then, it's not just been a place for our five daily prayers; we've also held tarawih, Aidilfitri, and Aidiladha prayers.

"We'll also hold tahlil every Friday night at the surau to remember him and ease our family's longing for our late son," he told Bernama when met in the village yesterday.

The retired teacher said Surau Al-Fahmi doubles as a daily prayer centre and religious learning hub, hosting programmes conducted by qualified religious teachers twice monthly and providing villagers with opportunities to deepen their religious knowledge.

"Villagers have really warmed to these programmes. It's especially encouraging on weekends when everyone joins in, including the youth.

"It's most heartening to see not just villagers but outsiders too. This shows the surau is more than a local facility. It's becoming a broader community hub," he said.

He said some of Ahmad Azza Fahmi's savings funded surau upgrades, including air conditioners and other basics to ensure worshippers can pray more comfortably, especially during religious programmes and congregational prayers.

"It's one way to create ongoing charity from his savings. I hope the benefits for worshippers bring him endless rewards," Azhar said.

The father of eight said that although the tragedy involving his son remains painful to recall, he now finds comfort in the good that has come from it.

"Now, looking at this surau, I try not to dwell on the sadness. What's gone is gone. Those of us still here need to look ahead and make sure it benefits the community," he said, thanking villagers and everyone for supporting and enlivening the surau.

"This shows the real power of community spirit and care. Thanks to everyone who's pitched in to keep the surau going strong," he said.

On May 17, 2024, an individual killed Ahmad Azza Fahmi, 22, and Constable Muhamad Syafiq Ahmad Said, 24, at Ulu Tiram police station in Johor. Another policeman, Corporal Mohd Hasif Roslan, 38, was wounded, while the assailant was shot dead.

On Aug 7, 2024, Ahmad Azza Fahmi’s family used a donation from the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (RESPA) to build the surau.

-- BERNAMA