PM helps to raise RM500,000 for golfer who lost leg in crash
Better future: Shaaban is all smiles as he is surrounded by his wife Nurazlina Nasruddin, 31, and sons, Danish Irfan, five (left), and Aqil Fahmi, three, after receiving cash aid from the Prime Minister. The cash was raised at a golf benefit for him in Shah Alam.
SHAH ALAM: Inspired by golfer Shaaban Hussin’s determination to rise above an accident that caused him to lose part of his leg, the Prime Minister helped raise RM500,000 for the sportsman through a charity golf event.
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who initiated and took part in the event in aid of the 36-year-old, called for participation and contributions from various corporations and individuals. And, many did.
“I hope there are better words than ‘thank you’ to tell them all,” a deeply moved Shaaban said yesterday after Najib presented RM407,000 to him.
The Prime Minister pledged that the Government would top up the remainder.
At the presentation ceremony organised by DRB-Hicom Bhd, Najib said he was inspired by Shaaban’s determination to overcome the adversity.
“I hope to see him take up a career, probably as an instructor, to train more golfers in future. He will be an inspiration to all,” said Najib, who visited Shaaban at the hospital after his accident.
Present at the event were DRB-Hicom Bhd chairman Tan Sri Mohd Khamil Jamil and group managing director Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar Syed Ali Rethza Albar.
On March 31, while on his way to training, Shaaban’s superbike skidded and he was thrown onto a road shoulder along the North-South Expressway.
His left arm was broken and his left leg was amputated below the knee.
Shaaban, who is undergoing rehabilitation, said he would focus on regaining the strength of his legs and not be wheelchair bound.
“The tragedy changed my life as a professional touring golfer but I accepted it as a challenge for me to not give up,” he said.
“The Seri Selangor Golf Club asked me to start an academy. I will not reject the offer,” said the father-of-two.
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