Malaysian news presenter Boey Leong has touched the hearts of netizens after sharing a story of how a lorry driver saved her life following a road accident four years ago.
In a Facebook post on June 25, the 36-year-old recalled driving from Penang to Klang on a rainy day for a relative's birthday celebration when her vehicle suddenly lost control on the highway.
The car skidded, spun several times and crashed into the road barrier before coming to a stop in the fast lane.
"I remember sitting in my car, crying and trembling. Car after car drove past me. I could only stare through my foggy window, repeatedly waving my hand in hopes that someone passing by would notice my plea and stop to help," the Astro presenter wrote.
Then, a lorry slowed down and pulled over across the fast lane, blocking the traffic behind her vehicle.
It was only days later that Leong realised the driver had deliberately positioned his lorry to create a protective barrier, shielding her from the risk of a potentially deadly second collision.
"Despite the heavy rain, he got out without an umbrella and was drenched from head to toe. He kept watching out for approaching vehicles and helped to direct traffic," she wrote.
When police officers arrived at the scene, the lorry driver continued to reassure the visibly shaken Leong.
Before he left, Leong managed to get his contact number. However, she waited until a week later – after she had calmed down – before reaching out to him.
She revealed that her saviour's name was Din. When they finally met, he repeatedly told her not to thank him, insisting that he had only done a small thing.
"Maybe for Din, helping others is just a normal part of his life. But to me, he saved my entire life," she wrote.
Leong added that not all heroes wear capes, writing: "On Malaysian roads, heroes like these are everywhere. It doesn't matter their race, skin colour or religion. When they see someone in trouble, they will choose to stop, extend a helping hand and bring (hope). Perhaps that is the most beautiful sight on our country's roads."
At the end of her post, Leong reminded everyone to drive safely, adding that she hoped no one would ever have to go through what she experienced.
However, if they ever face a similar situation, she hopes there will be someone like Din who's willing to lend a helping hand.
"To me, Abang Din is truly a hero ... Thank you to this Malaysian hero and all the other unsung heroes,” she wrote.
