Daniel Lim
The journey that one takes in life can come in many forms, but everyone has to face the heavy burden of grief that weighs upon families when a loved one passes away, often leaving them overwhelmed with the logistics and practicalities of laying their cherished ones to rest.
Amid the sorrow and vulnerability, a group of compassionate volunteers based in the Belait District dedicated their time and effort to lessen the burden and shoulder the responsibility of grave digging at An-Naem Islamic Cemetery in Anduki.
The small volunteer group, called Geng Gali Kubur and comprising four members, has not only lightened the load for grieving families but also unearthed a profound sense of support and unity within the community in conducting the noble act of gravedigging.
The members are Norkamaliah binti Nurdin, Norlilayanti binti Junaidi, their father and a close friend.
“I started volunteering as a tribute to my mother who passed away and is also buried at An-Naem Islamic Cemetery,” Norkamaliah said. “Working here as a volunteer, I am proud of myself and for my late mother that the work we do can help lessen others’ burden.”
Having begun volunteering in 2019, Norkamaliah recalled how she was hesitant, but noted how her faith in Allah the Almighty and the desire to help those suffering from grief, helped her to push forward as a gravedigger.
Norkamaliah and Norlilayanti both noted that while they are proud to be gravedigging as women, they also highlighted that there are not many willing to volunteer, let alone women.
“While we are not showing off, we also want to inspire more volunteerism in helping those who are suffering, and that the preparation and digging of a grave is just one of the acts that we can do.
“In return, it is one less thing to think about for those overwhelmed with grief,” Norkamaliah said.
Norlilayanti also expressed appreciation to other gravediggers pouring their heart and soul into preparing the graves.
“Dignity can be hard work, and preparing the grave site, whether it be in scorching heat during the day, or in moonless nights dimly lit by small spotlights, there is respect to be had for being a gravedigger,” she said.
They also recalled the stories and tales of gravediggers which they wear with pride in conquering trials and tribulations. “There are times when people do not understand or appreciate the work that we do, and there are also times when we work well into the night.
“Despite this, we will continue to work for the benefit of others as well as ourselves,” said Norkamaliah.
“We hope to seek blessings from Allah the Almighty in ensuring that we can continue the work that we do to help others, especially those unable to properly dig graves for those who have just passed away,” added Norlilayanti.
