IPOH: By day, Nazirah Abdul Rahman works as a beauty consultant, but by night, she transforms into “Mama Pinky”, a clown raising funds to feed and rescue stray animals.
The 49-year-old mother of three has been spending her nights feeding stray cats and dogs in areas such as Menglembu, Lahat, and industrial zones since 2014.
To support the growing number of animals under her care, Nazirah began performing as a clown in 2018 at locations such as the Ipoh Night Market and Ger-bang Malam here.
“I suddenly thought of the idea because my money was no longer enough to feed all the animals,” she said when met at the Ipoh Night Market last Saturday.
Nazirah said she usually starts her clown performances after finishing work at about 8.30pm.
Wearing red outfits with face paint and, occasionally, a full clown costume, she makes balloon creations for visitors, who are then free to donate any amount they wish.
“The balloons have no fixed price. People can sincerely donate from their hearts to assist the animals,” she said.
Nazirah currently cares for nearly 50 cats at her home in Batu Gajah while also feeding stray dogs at several locations nightly.
She said some rescued animals are sent for treatment before being re-homed or transferred to shelters if adopters cannot be found.
According to her, monthly expenses for food and veterinary treatment can exceed RM2,000.
“The dogs eat biscuits, rice, and chicken parts, while the cats also need food and medical treatment,” she said, adding that she still needs to pay off veterinary bills totalling about RM5,000.
Backed by the support of her family and friends, Nazirah continues her work while keeping their constant reminders to stay safe in mind during her nightly rounds.
During school holidays, she performs almost every night at the Ipoh Night Market to raise additional funds.
“Some days I earn RM20, and there are days when I can make RM100,” she said.
Muhammad Akmal Mohd Azahar, 40, a civil servant who was at the Ipoh Night Market with his two children, said he was touched by Nazirah’s dedication in saving and feeding strays.
“These animals are voiceless because they have no owners, and it is not easy for anyone to do what she is doing,” he said after donating some money and taking a balloon for his toddler son.
