Gerik crash: UPSI student leaves behind over 100 pieces of artwork

New Straits Times

15-06-2025

BESUT: "It was only after his passing that we discovered a carefully kept file containing more than 100 pieces of his artwork," said Rosde Yaakub, 58, father of Muhammad Mustaqim Rosde, 21, who was among the victims of the fatal crash along the East–West Highway near Tasik Banding, Gerik, on June 9.
Rosde said his second son had a deep passion for art and chose to pursue his studies in the field, having nurtured the interest since his school days.
"He studied at SMK Putra in Hulu Besut until Form Five, before continuing at SMK Seri Nering under the arts and literature stream.
"Before entering university, he managed to sell three of his artworks, with some fetching up to RM100 each," he said.
Mustaqim would often spend his free time drawing and also took on small jobs creating decorative calligraphy for banners and decorative mirror art for weddings.
"Even though someone offered RM400 for one of his paintings, we decided not to sell any. These are his final memories for us," Rosde added, when met at their home in Kampung Telaga Nibong, Jertih.
Meanwhile, Mustaqim's mother, Juariah Abd Rahman, 48, said her son was a devoted child who had grown increasingly inclined toward religious practices since entering university.
"I was told that Aqim (Mustaqim's nickname) reminded his roommate not to neglect their prayers before returning home for Aidiladha.
"Since starting university, he had become more diligent about attending prayers and breaking fast at the mosque, especially since his dorm was located nearby," she said.
Recounting the events on the night of the tragedy, Juariah said Mustaqim had sought her permission to perform the Isyak prayer in congregation at Masjid Hadhari, Jertih, before boarding the bus.
She also shared that her son was frequently seen reading and reciting the Quran.