Tragedy renews calls for stricter regulations
Danial Hakim
SHAH ALAM - A devastating firecracker explosion in Kampung Baru, Kuala Nerang has left a seven-year-old boy fighting for his life, while his four-year-old brother sustained burn injuries.
The incident, which occurred at 8.15pm on Wednesday highlights the severe dangers of firecrackers, particularly for children, as the Hari Raya celebrations approach.
The Incident Unfolds
Muhammad Zharif Daniel Norsyuwari Hariz, 7, and his younger brother, Muhammad Aiman Naufal, 4, played with firecrackers outside their home.
They had obtained ball-type firecrackers from a friend, unbeknownst to their family.
"I was resting inside when I heard a loud explosion. I rushed outside and was shocked to see my grandson covered in blood," their grandfather, 60-year-old Mohd Noor Abdullah described the horrifying moment.
Zharif suffered severe injuries, with his left hand disfigured up to the wrist and his right cheek torn.
His younger brother sustained burn wounds and minor injuries.
Noor Abdullah acted quickly, wrapping his grandson's bleeding hand with a shirt and rushing both boys to Kuala Nerang Hospital.
Due to the severity of Zharif’s injuries, he was transferred to Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital in Alor Setar, where he underwent emergency surgery.
Medical Response and Ongoing Struggle
Doctors performed surgery to treat the burns and damage to Zharif’s body.
He underwent a second operation but remains unconscious in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).
Noor Abdullah expressed deep distress, conveying that he had not yet seen Zharif and could only wait outside the PICU ward, praying for his recovery.
Fortunately, his younger brother, Aiman, is expected to be discharged soon.
Police Investigation and Safety Concerns
Padang Terap district police chief, Superintendent Abdull Razak Osman confirmed that a report was filed after medical officers alerted authorities. He said Zharif sustained burns covering approximately 60 per cent of his body.
The family was unaware of how the children obtained the firecrackers.
Fragments of a mineral water bottle were found, suggesting the children might have experimented by placing multiple firecrackers inside, causing the powerful explosion.
The incident has deeply affected the boys' father, Norsyuwari Hariz, who had hoped his son would join the military.
"Norsyuwari always hoped Zharif would become a soldier as he was active and interested in the military field since childhood. Now, that dream is shattered," Noor Abdullah recounted.
This tragedy has renewed calls for stricter firecracker regulations. The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) research officer Hatijah Hashim advocated for a complete ban on their sale, emphasising the permanent disabilities suffered by victims.
Kedah Consumer Association (Cake) president Mohd Yusrizal Yusoff urged parents to supervise their children and increase awareness of firecracker safety.
As Zharif fights for his life, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of firecrackers.
While his younger brother is expected to recover, the trauma and life-altering injuries suffered by Zharif will impact his family forever.
Safety advocates continue to push for stronger laws, increased awareness and parental responsibility to prevent future tragedies.
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