SAVINGS originally set aside for a pilgrimage were redirected to save a child’s life after Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh, UMNO Youth Chief and Merlimau State Assemblyman, contributed RM120,000 to fund an urgent medical procedure for a toddler suffering from a rare liver condition.

Dr Akmal said the money had been intended for his haj pilgrimage with his wife next year, but he questioned the meaning of worship if a young life was at risk.

His contribution has become a turning point for a family from Serkam, Jasin, whose two-year-and-four-month-old daughter, Nur Asyura Medina, has been battling Biliary Atresia since birth and requires immediate liver transplant surgery in China.

Medina’s father, Muhammad Ikmal Haziq Mazlan, 24, said the total cost of the transplant is estimated at RM180,000. Despite launching a public fundraising effort last month, the family had managed to collect only RM62,000, leaving a substantial shortfall.

He described months of uncertainty and emotional strain as he and his wife struggled to find ways to raise the remaining funds.

The fundraising campaign had also received support from Duyong Assemblyman Datuk Mohd Noor Helmy Abdul Halem, who helped publicise the appeal. Still, the financial gap appeared overwhelming.

The situation changed when Dr Akmal stepped forward with his personal savings. According to the family, the donation represented more than financial assistance; it restored hope at a moment when options seemed exhausted.

Dr Akmal said that although Medina does not reside in the Merlimau constituency, he felt a moral obligation to help when made aware of her condition.

Following the surgery, the family will continue to face monthly expenses estimated at RM5,000 for specialised milk formula and medication to support Medina’s recovery and long-term care.

Members of the public who wish to contribute may do so via Bank Islam account number 05049020332559 under the name Muhammad Ikmal Haziq Mazlan. – December 13, 2025