But in Kampung Poh Tambahan near Bidor, Perak, the retired teacher has found some comfort in a place built to honour his son’s memory – Surau Al-Fahmi.
Named after constable Ahmad Azza Fahmi Azhar, the surau has grown into more than just a prayer space. For villagers, it has become a centre for worship, religious learning and community gatherings.
For Azhar, it is also a quiet reminder that his son’s legacy continues to live on through acts of faith and togetherness.
“This surau was built in August 2024 and started operating in March last year,” he told Bernama. “Since then, it has not only been used for our five daily prayers but also for tarawih, Aidilfitri and Aidiladha prayers.”
Every Friday night, the family also holds tahlil gatherings there. “We do it to remember him and ease our longing for our late son,” Azhar added softly.
The surau hosts regular religious classes twice a month, drawing villagers of all ages, including youths.
According to Azhar, seeing the community embrace the space has brought peace to his family.
“It’s most heartening to see not just villagers but outsiders too,” he said. “It shows the surau is more than just a local facility.”
Some of Ahmad Azza Fahmi’s savings were also used to improve the facility, including installing air conditioners and other necessities to make worshippers more comfortable.
Azhar sees it as a form of charity on behalf of his son. “I hope the benefits received by worshippers will bring him endless rewards,” he said.
For the father of eight, speaking about the tragedy remains painful, but he has tried to focus on the good that has emerged from the loss.
“Whenever I look at this surau, I try not to dwell on the sadness. Those of us still here need to look ahead and make sure it benefits the community.”
He also expressed gratitude to villagers and supporters who have helped keep the surau active and welcoming.
“This shows the real strength of community spirit and care,” he said. “I’m thankful to everyone who has played a part in keeping it alive.”
On May 17, 2024, Ahmad Azza Fahmi, 22, and constable Muhamad Syafiq Ahmad Said, 24, were killed in an attack at the Ulu Tiram police station.
Another policeman, Mohd Hasif Roslan, was injured, while the attacker was shot dead.
On Aug 7, Ahmad Azza Fahmi’s family used a donation from the Retired Senior Police Officers Association of Malaysia (Respa) to help build Surau Al-Fahmi.
Today, the sound of prayers filling the surau offers something quieter but enduring: a sense that even in loss, a life can continue to touch others.