In recent weeks, we’ve seen Malaysians go the distance to observe the Movement Control Order (MCO) — and creating some truly amazing stories in the process. But this one of a man and his newfound pet goes above and beyond all.
On March 25, 34-year-old Alixson Mangundok returned from his work trip in Japan. He chose not to take public transport or have his relatives fetch him, in the odd chance that he might have contracted COVID-19 while being abroad.
Photo: Facebook Alixson Awandoh
“After reaching the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, I was screened and did not show any COVID-19 symptoms, but I was still asked to go to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital for a more thorough screening,” Mangundok told the Star.
After he had been tested for the virus, he was then told that he could self-quarantine at home while waiting for the results. He then decided that it would better for him to walk home, just so he would not risk meeting anyone on his journey.
“But when I was told I could self-isolate at home and not pose a risk to anyone, I decided to walk to Kota Marudu because I am used to walking for kilometres during my hunting and farming days,” said Mangundok.
He began his journey on foot and not long after he walked past a cemetery and a dog came up to him and tagged along.
“I thought it would walk away eventually but it stayed with me the whole way. That is why I decided to adopt it,” said Mangundok
He named it Hachiko, a Japanese Akita dog remembered for his remarkable loyalty toward his owner.
They continued their journey together, through rain and shine.
Photo: The Star
Mangundok said that he was often stopped by the authorities who are stationed along his route who were curious about his situation.
“At every roadblock, the police and security forces would ask where I was going. When I told them Kota Marudu, they could not believe it,” Mangundok said.
He had to explain to them while showing passport and letters from the hospital, his intentions as the police advised him to be careful and to rest at clearly lit areas.
Mangundok even stopped to buy drinks for himself and cans of sardines for Hachiko.
On the morning of March 28 near Kampung Tandasan Kota Belud, halfway to Kota Marudu, Mangundok met his brother who drove to fetch him.
Apparently, after hearing the news that Mangundok had been walking for days just to reach home, his brother arranged for a car to be sent to him, so he could drive home with his new friend.
“I did not go to see my parents when I reached Kota Marudu but went straight to a small hut on the farm because it would be safer for everyone,” he said.
Mangundok’s first test came out negative and on April 7, he went for his second COVID-19 screening at the Kota Marudu Hospital.
“I won’t rest and will not meet my family until the hospital gives me confirmation that I am free from this virus. For now, Hachiko and I spend our time together at the hut,” Mangundok said.
In total, Mangundok and Hachiko walked around 70km together.
Mangundok’s story touched the heart of many who praised him for his effort in protecting others around him safe
We wish Magundok and Hachiko well and that they are safe and sound wherever they go.
By: Siti Farhana Sheikh Yahya
