Zaharil’s worldview and values were profoundly shaped during his time as a law student in London in the late 1980s. Sharing a home with friends from different backgrounds: David, Francis, Simon, and Palaiah, he experienced firsthand the strength of unity.
“During our time as students, we were like brothers. During the fasting month, they would call out: ‘Mat, Mat, Mat, come down, it’s sahur time! I’ve cooked you curry!’
During Chinese New Year, I bought two chickens and cooked rendang for Simon,” he recalled in an interview.
However, this bond did not endure upon their return to Malaysia. “Once we touched down at KLIA, there went our friendship and brotherhood. I still wonder: Why did this happen? Was our friendship in London artificial?”
Zaharil believes that addressing Malaysia’s racial and religious divides is crucial. “If racial and religious sentiments are instigated every day, Malaysia will struggle to progress. We need to find solutions,” he said.
Beyond his legal career, Zaharil is deeply involved in his community. Whether helping to run a friend’s murtabak stall at a Ramadan bazaar or providing meals for the homeless, his actions reflect his values.
“During Covid-19, using my own money, I managed to donate about three tonnes of rice, one tonne of flour, and other essentials like cooking oil. Hunger is universal. Regardless of whether you are Chinese, Indian, or Malay, the suffering is the same. I will continue this as long as I can,” he said.
One of Zaharil’s most profound experiences came full circle years later when he unknowingly reunited with the son of the woman he had defended in 1998.
“I had no idea who he was at first. But when he told me his story, I started crying. I never expected anything in return. He still calls me to check in, asks how I’m doing, and takes care of his mother. That’s what really matters to me.”
For Zaharil, justice transcends race and religion. “I saw that the mother was in trouble. She was helpless, and I happened to be there, so I helped. That’s all.”
As a father of seven, Zaharil instills the same values in his children. “Honesty and integrity are the most important things. But above all, never forget your parents, respect and take care of them, and God will take care of you.”
His daughter, Eva Zarina, holds him in high regard. “When I heard about the pencil box story, I was so proud of him because it reminded me of the legacy he is leaving behind. It motivated me to create my own impact as well.”
Through his actions, Zaharil hopes to inspire the next generation of Malaysians to embrace integrity, compassion, and unity; values that will shape a better future for the nation.
Source : FreeMalaysiaToday.com , marketech apac