KUALA LUMPUR: On Saturday evening, Asmawi “Mawi” Ani saw his 3-month-old niece sleeping soundly on the sofa in front of him.
The Munafik 2 actor was at home with his younger sister Asmidah and other relatives for a tahlil ceremony to commemorate their mother’s death on June 19.
But tragedy struck less than 24 hours later when Asmidah’s baby Azra Syakirin Azri stopped breathing and was pronounced dead on arrival in hospital.
Mawi, 38, who was shocked and saddened by his niece’s sudden death, uploaded an Instagram photo of himself leading prayers for Azra Syakirin at the hospital’s mortuary yesterday.
In the caption he said: “My 3-month-old niece is no more. Last night, she was sleeping in front of me in the living room, as my siblings and I were chatting after tahlil prayers for our late mother.
“But the following morning, she was gone. Rest in peace, Azra Syakirin Azri. God loves you more.”
Mawi also comforted his sister and said, “May you stay strong Asmidah. From God we come, to God we return.”
Netizens expressed their heartfelt sympathy for Mawi and Asmidah.
Singaporean singer Awi Rafael said: “Salam takziah brother Mawi and family.”
“Takziah Mawi and Asmidah. God bless baby Azra Syakirin. Rest in peace,” said Ahamad.
“Deepest condolences to Mawi World and family for your loss. May God bless baby Azra Syakirin and grant her a place in Paradise,” said Nair.
Mawi’s mother Ramlah Sarlan, 73, died at the family home in Felda Taib Andak, Kulai, Johor at 8pm on June 19. She was buried at the Felda Taib Andak Muslim Cemetery the following day.
Mawi’s father Ani Ahmad died in 2006 at the age of 66.