KUALA LUMPUR: When duty calls, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, it has always been a challenge for frontliners such as those working in the medical line.
This is especially challenging when it comes to observing sahur (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (breaking fast), when doctors and nurses prioritise their patients' needs over themselves.
For Dr Samsu Ambia Ismail, who is the head of the emergency and trauma department at the Teluk Intan Hospital in Perak, working during Ramadan is indeed challenging due to the unpredictable nature of cases and the relentless demand for his services, no matter the time.
At times, Dr Samsu can only manage a quick meal due to the demanding nature of his job.
It is common knowledge that the emergency department is one of the busiest departments in the hospital due to the various and unpredictable cases that could come in at any time.
Dr Samsu said that it is normal for people in his profession to deviate from the regular fasting schedule.
"It's normal for us to not follow the timing of fasting and breaking fast due to the nature of our job. And sometimes it can be exhausting," he told Harian Metro.
However, Dr Samsu said it should not be an excuse to skip fasting because it is an obligation for a Muslim.
Sharing his experiences of working during Ramadan, Dr Samsu recalled a time when he couldn't have sahur because he was handling an assault case that took place in Klang, Selangor, in 1996.
"We received a report saying that five injured victims with their throat slits were on their way to the hospital. I couldn't eat anything after that, as I felt nauseous due to the overwhelming stench of blood," he said.
Another incident that remained vivid in his memory was one involving a police shootout case at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL) in 2000.
The police were escorting a Thai patient, who was seeking treatment at the hospital, when the suspect grabbed one of the escorts' guns and began firing.
The shot hit a police officer and a trainer.
"To save myself, I hid behind the desk, but I was relieved and grateful that the situation was under control after the patient fled.
"Due to that incident, I ended up breaking my fast late that day," he said.
Dr Samsu nearly missed his sahur when he had to handle a landslide case that destroyed several residences, including the bungalow belonging to former Chief of the Armed Forces and former Chairman of Affin Bank, General (Retired) Tan Sri Ismail Omar, in Taman Hillview, Hulu Klang, on Nov 20, 2002."After receiving initial information, I was rushed to the scene to handle three deceased victims, and I was informed that there were still others buried.
"In the chaos, I couldn't have a proper sahur; I only managed to drink some water to fulfil the basic requirement to fill my stomach," said Dr Samsu, who has been serving for 28 years.
Despite his busy schedule, he also made sure none of his patients were neglected, especially during Ramadan. He often shared food with them, especially those who came unaccompanied by family members.
"When we see patients waiting, especially those without companions, we take our food from the hospital's kitchen and give it to them," he said.