Munirah founded Pertiwi Soup Kitchen in 2010, serving warm grub for the homeless in the heart of Kuala Lumpur four nights a week, something which kept going even through the Covid-19 pandemic.
She was also an active human rights activist and sought to support these homeless individuals in lifting themselves out of poverty, even through collaboration with the government.
Munirah breathed her last yesterday morning after a battle with cancer, passing away peacefully at her home at about 4am. She was 70.
Pertiwi Soup Kitchen assistant secretary Laili Ismail said Munirah had consistently prioritised the cause over her own personal interests. One of her fondest memories was when she accompanied her for an interview.
“‘People can forget about me, but they should never forget about the cause and Pertiwi Soup Kitchen.’
“Those were her words when I accompanied a writer to document her life for a book,” she told FMT when met at the Bukit Kiara Muslim cemetery here.
Laili, 64, said Munirah insisted that the contents of the book should primarily focus on the cause she held dear to her heart, adding that this encapsulated her selflessness and devotion to the betterment of society.
“She had always believed that there was no such thing as ‘spoiling’ people by helping them.
“Instead, she saw it as an opportunity to offer them a better chance at a brighter future, especially children of underprivileged families,” she said.
While Munirah was strict and systematic in her approach, Laili said, she was still better known for her kindness and genuine interest in knowing people on a personal level.
“This unique blend of discipline and warmth endeared her to both beneficiaries and Pertiwi members.”
She said Pertiwi Soup Kitchen will continue to uphold Munirah’s legacy by dividing her responsibilities among dedicated individuals, each playing their part to ensure the organisation continues to thrive.
Meanwhile, former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin, Munirah’s nephew, described his aunt as firm and fierce in demeanor at times, but her heart was always in the right place.
“Her founding of the organisation, which has provided nourishing meals to thousands of people, stands as a testament to her compassion and unwavering commitment to helping those in need,” he said.
Khairy recalled how he spent a significant amount of time with Munirah, his mother’s youngest sister, when he was at a boarding school while his parents were posted overseas.
“She became a source of inspiration for me, instilling in me the values of activism and public service.
“One of her most recent projects, the Pertiwi Assisted Living Home for elderly individuals without family support, exemplified her boundless empathy,” he said.
He hoped that the organisation, along with its dedicated volunteers, would continue to carry Munirah’s vision and ensure that her legacy of caring for the people lives on.
Munirah was laid to rest at the Bukit Kiara Muslim cemetery yesterday afternoon. She leaves her husband, Abdul Karim Hercus, 75, son Adlan Hercus, 49, and daughter Baida Jane Hercus, 46.
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