SINGAPORE:

In an astonishing act of bravery, Bangladeshi lorry driver Jahir, on his day off, became a local hero last Sunday (October 20) when he rescued a terrified three-year-old boy who had found himself precariously perched on a third-floor ledge. The dramatic incident unfolded near his home at Block 350C Canberra Road, where a crowd had gathered in alarm.

As Jahir was cycling to fetch lunch, he was drawn by the commotion. Little did he know that within moments, he would engage in a life-saving mission. With 17 years of experience working in Singapore, he swiftly teamed up with Myanmar national Sa Thu Ya Aung, a 26-year-old painter who was en route to church when he noticed the large gathering.

Together, they devised a plan to save the frightened child, who stood paralyzed with fear. The duo demonstrated incredible teamwork, overcoming language barriers and physical challenges. Mr. Jahir attempted to reach the boy via a stairwell but was limited in his movement due to his jeans. Undeterred, he returned to ground level and waited for Sa Thu Ya Aung—who had first seen the commotion at the MRT station—to join him.

In a heart-stopping sequence caught on video, the two men climbed out over the parapet leading to the narrow ledge. Jahir, displaying immense courage, supported Sa Thu Ya Aung as he gingerly approached the boy. “His hands were cold, and he didn’t say a word,” Mr. Sa Thu Ya Aung recalled. “He was utterly terrified.” The duo worked tirelessly to reassure the child while risking their own safety, knowing they could be seconds away from a tragic fall.

Thanks to their swift actions, the boy was safely retrieved and lifted back indoors just moments before the arrival of emergency services. Local authorities have since initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child being on the ledge, with a 25-year-old woman assisting in these inquiries, highlighting possible negligence.

In recognition of their heroism, Jahir and Sa Thu Ya Aung were honored with the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) Community Lifesaver Award at a ceremony in Yishun, acknowledging their selfless commitment and significant risk to their own lives. “I hope their acts of courage inspire others to step in when they see someone in distress,” urged Colonel Lim Beng Hui, the division commander, during the awards presentation.

Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Jahir remarked, “It could have been my child. I urge families with young children to always ensure windows are secured.” Both awardees expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community. Their remarkable deed not only saved a life but also underscored the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the young and vulnerable.

As Singapore honors these two indistinguishable heroes, their story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that ordinary individuals can make in extraordinary circumstances. Would you risk your life to save someone else’s child?