Sergeant (PA) Muhamad Muazam Shah Kamardin, a 39-year-old personnel with the Temerloh Civil Defence Force, died at Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Hospital at 1.50am after a king cobra bit him during a public demonstration in Taman Temerloh Jaya, according to his family and colleagues.
Snakebite History and Previous Coma
The fatal encounter followed a series of prior venomous snakebites that nearly cost Muazam Shah his life. According to his sister, Siti Aisyah Kamardin, her brother had been hospitalized three times previously for snakebites.
“Three years ago, he was in a coma and suffered heart complications following a snakebite,” Siti Aisyah said when met at the Kampung Bukit Kelulut Muslim cemetery. Following that severe incident, doctors restricted him from performing heavy duties, but his dedication to handling reptiles persisted.
The Demonstration and the Reptile Involved
Muazam Shah utilized his own pets during educational outreach programs. According to Siti Aisyah, the king cobra that bit him during the demonstration was one that he personally reared and frequently brought to public exhibitions.
Following the bite, Muazam Shah managed to alert his colleagues and secure the animal. “He managed to alert his colleagues after being bitten yesterday before returning the snake to its box,” Siti Aisyah said. He subsequently went to wash his hands before collapsing suddenly and being rushed to the hospital.
Colleague Reflections on Passion and Safety
Colleagues remembered Muazam Shah as a dedicated emergency responder who viewed handling venomous snakes as a public service rather than entertainment. According to his colleague, Mohd Shafik Abdul Latif, the officer responded to rescue calls at all hours.
“Whenever he received a call about a reptile found in a house, he would wash his face, put on his uniform, start his motorcycle and immediately head out to help,” Shafik said. Shafik noted that he frequently warned Muazam Shah about the inherent dangers of working closely with venomous animals, advising caution and avoiding overconfidence. When cautioned, Muazam Shah typically responded, “I am passionate; what can I do?”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Sergeant Muhamad Muazam Shah Kamardin?
According to his family and colleagues, he died at Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Hospital after being bitten by a king cobra during a Civil Defence Force demonstration in Taman Temerloh Jaya.
Did he have prior experience with snakebites?
Yes. According to his sister, Siti Aisyah Kamardin, he had been hospitalized three times for venomous snakebites, including an incident three years prior that left him in a coma with heart complications.
What type of snake was involved in the incident?
Family members stated that the snake was a king cobra that Muazam Shah personally reared and regularly brought to public safety demonstrations.
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