National Heroes
In an extraordinary display of bravery and humanity, five Pakistani men are being hailed as national heroes in Malaysia after they risked their lives to rescue dozens of people from a deadly blaze.
The incident unfolded when a gas pipeline explosion rocked a densely populated area, triggering a massive fire that quickly engulfed nearby structures and forced residents to flee in panic.
As the fire spread rapidly, many residents — including women and children — ran toward a nearby canal, desperate to escape the flames. Unaware that the waterway was infested with crocodiles, several people jumped in, putting themselves at even greater risk.
Amid the chaos, five Pakistani workers, witnessing the unfolding tragedy, did not hesitate to act. Fully aware of the dangers lurking in the canal, they dove in to save the drowning victims, risking their own lives in the process.
The men pulled out dozens of people, carrying many — including children — on their shoulders and backs to safety. Their selfless act of courage was caught on video by bystanders and quickly went viral on Malaysian social media, drawing praise from across the country.
The outpouring of admiration extended beyond social media. Malaysian news outlets highlighted the bravery of the five Pakistani heroes, while members of civil society, local business leaders, and the Pakistani community in Malaysia organized a ceremony to honor them.
Hosted by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) Malaysia, the Pakistan Press Club Malaysia, and supported by the Malaysia Pakistani Community Association, the event was a moving tribute to their courage.
Prominent Malaysian figures, including Dato Amin Siddiq and businessman Aslam Bhai, attended the ceremony and commended the men’s valor. “These five heroes have elevated Pakistan’s image globally,” Siddiq remarked. “They proved that in the face of danger, humanity has no boundaries.”
In their humble statements to the media, the rescuers expressed that they acted out of compassion and did not expect any recognition. “We heard the screams and just jumped in — we didn’t think about the crocodiles,” said one of the men. “We only wanted to help and please Allah.”
PFUJ Malaysia President Owais Taj Chaudhry called upon the Government of Pakistan to officially recognize these men for their heroism and their role in promoting a positive image of Pakistan internationally.
The ceremony concluded with certificates of appreciation and gifts for the heroes — a heartfelt acknowledgment of their courage, which now stands as a shining symbol of international brotherhood and selfless humanity.
