Photo via Berita Harian
The recipient of Malaysia’s first-ever successful liver transplant over 20 years ago, passed away this morning (March 2nd) due to complications from the procedure, at the age of 23.
Mohd Afiq Ikmal Muhammad Zaini had been in critical condition and was being treated at Selayang Hospital since February 13th.
News of his passing broke when Berita Harian was informed of his death by the original liver donor, Wan Mohd Hafizam Wan Ismail, who heard the news from Afiq’s father.
Photo via Kosmo!
It’s understood that the procedure was conducted on Afiq when he was just 14-months-old after Hafizam, who was 23 at the time, stepped up to donate part of his liver.
Performing a liver transplant wasn’t a common procedure in Malaysia then, and Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) was one of the first medical centers that provided the service.
Photo via Facebook
It’s understood that officers from the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), including Hafizam, had volunteered even though they had no ties to Afiq whatsoever.
Now 43, Hafizam is still serving in the APM, and holds the position of Director of the APM Equine Brigade.
This success story remained fresh in both Afiq and Hafizam’s minds over the years - In 2019, the pair took to social media to express their gratitude that everything was going well even 20 years after the procedure.
GENAP 20 TAHUN TERIMA HATI ( Satu Hati Dua jasad) 3/4/1999 - 3/4/2019 Sejarah penderma hati pertama Malaysia Lt.kol...
Posted by CDERT Briged Ekuin APM on Wednesday, April 3, 2019
Our thoughts go out to Afiq’s family.
by Kyle Roshen Jacob
