JOHOR BARU, Dec 5 — Zakaria Mohammad and his small troupe of compassionate souls are a familiar sight along the corridors of the Sultanah Aminah Hospital here.

They comfort, encourage and offer hope to the sick of all races and religions. 

Come what may, he and his coterie have walked among those with failing health and finances three times a week for the past 15 months, trying to lighten emotional burdens.

Their reward is often the soundless thanks mouthed by those too sick to speak or the barely discernible nod from caregivers exhausted by months of looking after the every need of their loved ones.  

Zakaria heads the hospital’s volunteer organisation, a multi-religious group that seeks to bring relief to those battling disease. Sometimes their mere presence soothes better than any medicine.

At times, they offer prayers on request from patients or caregivers looking beyond drugs for hope.

He has no backing from corporate sponsors nor does he possess celebrity status. But he has a big heart which has served him well in caring for the needs of the less fortunate.

Earning an income as a graphic artist which is just enough to keep his family of three going, the 50-year-old has made the task of helping others, especially the needy, his life goal.

“You will be surprised. The hospital wards, especially where the very sick are staying, are places where you can experience the whole spectrum of human emotion,” Zakaria said.

“The patients are too sick to say anything but those who look after them — the parents, the siblings or their relatives — are often the ones who suffer most.”

“I heard a story from the nurses there of a man from Mersing who gave up his job to care for his 13-year-old daughter who was suffering from cancer. He stays in the hospital to look after his daughter, his entire life revolves around his daughter.”

“Sacrifices people make for their loved ones know no bounds and what are a few words of encouragement and comfort compared to their sufferings. I am a Muslim and for those who share the same faith, I can offer a little prayer for their health and well-being.

“But there are non-Muslims who believe prayers in any form and language are beneficial. They would hold my hands and ask me to pray for their health and the recovery of their loved one,” Zakaria said.

“You can tell those who look after the sick ones are from other districts by the bags they put under the patient’s beds. And often they stay for long periods because the people they care for are critically ill.”

He said the group relied on public donations to buy food and bottled water for distribution to caregivers.

“I get donations through my Facebook account. I do not encourage people to give money directly. It creates suspicion and allegations of abuse. 

“But there are those who insist I take cash as they say it is too much of a hassle for them to bank the money into my account. Once, two gentlemen shoved RM500 into my hands and told me to continue what I was doing,” said Zakaria.

On average, he brings 60 packets of RM5 meals and bottled water on each visit. He is at the hospital three times a week and spends about RM900 on food alone. 

Several years ago, he started a project called “Alas Perut” where he distributed food to those on the streets. 

“I continue giving food to those wandering the streets of Johor Baru. These include the homeless and sometimes, drug addicts, too. 

“I am still involved in the project but not as often as I like, as I spend most of my time at the hospital,” he said. 

On what drives him to selflessly dedicate his life to others, the father of three daughters aged 19, 16 and 12 said: “I remember when I first came to Johor Baru in 1987 to look for work. I had no friends nor relatives and so little money. I slept on benches at Lido Beach and I showered at public toilets until I found a job and a permanent place to stay.

“I went through some hard times. But what I went through is nothing compared to the experience of those who have to be away from the comfort of their homes to care for someone they love, day and night, not knowing when they will be cured.

“My group of friends and I can only offer words of comfort and encouragement and try to give whatever help they need. 

“I feel very much at ease knowing a small gesture can make a difference in their lives at a time when they need it most,” said Zakaria.