Kuala Lumpur: The three children of the late Muhammad Basir Abu Bakar, a former journalist with Utusan Melayu (M) Bhd, have been provided with financial assistance through the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA fund following the death of their father due to a chronic illness. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who extended his condolences to the now-orphaned siblings, also contributed personal cash donations and pledged to cover their phone bills for one year. He assured reporters that he would arrange for their internet expenses to be covered, ensuring they remain connected with their family.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi visited the children at their home in Taman Setia 2, accompanied by Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) CEO Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin. Fahmi remarked on Muhammad Basir being the first recipient of the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA initiative in April 2023 and recalled visiting the family as his first official act as minister. He noted the unfortunate passing of Muhammad Basir's wife, Nor Azlina Jaafar, in October, followed by Muhammad Basir's own death.
Fahmi expressed appreciation towards Bernama for their role in facilitating support for the family. He highlighted that the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA initiative has aided 303 individuals, particularly former journalists facing hardships due to chronic health issues. Muhammad Basir's final rites were conducted at Masjid Taman Taming Jaya in Balakong, and he was laid to rest at the Batu 10 Muslim Cemetery in Cheras.
Muhammad Basir, aged 45, passed away at Hospital Sultan Idris Shah in Serdang, leaving behind three children aged 10 to 15. His wife, Nor Azlina, a former photographer at Kumpulan Utusan, died on October 17, 2023. Muhammad Basir's death is seen as a profound loss by his colleagues, especially following the closure of Utusan Melayu in 2019.
Former National Union of Journalists Malaysia (NUJM) president, Mohd Taufek Razak, recognized Muhammad Basir's significant contributions as the union's secretary, particularly in advocating for compensation after mass layoffs at the company. Taufek praised Muhammad Basir's unwavering dedication to his cause.
Former NUJM secretary Baharuddin Yaacob acknowledged the couple's commitment to supporting colleagues in distress and bereavement, noting their efforts in setting up donation boxes at the office. He shared that Muhammad Basir continued his advocacy for compensation even as his health declined.
Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) secretary-general Kamarul Baharin Mansor noted Muhammad Basir's frequent visits to the MTUC office for guidance on advocating for his rights and those of his colleagues following the closure of Utusan Melayu. Kamarul was present to honor the late journalist.