Space Trip Changed His View Of Life
By Fadhil Yunus and Azaraimy HH

Bandar Seri Begawan - He is the inspiration for many youths in Malaysia, Brunei and throughout the Muslim world to go the extra mile and achieve the unachievable, think the unthinkable and face the challenge to reach whatever and however big one's dream is.

Dr Slikh Muszaphar Shukor, a 35-year-old orthopaedic surgeon and university lecturer, returned to Earth on October 21 2007 after 11 days in space conducting studies on the effects of micro gravity and space radiation on cells and microbes and experiments with proteins.

In an exclusive interview with the Bulletin in Brunei, the Malaysian spaceman spoke of the importance of working with all humanity of all religions and ideologies on the need to heal the world of its common troubles, namely, poverty and pollution.

Numerous articles had been written about him, most by the Malaysian print and web media, but in this exclusive interview he focused more on how his trip to outer space changed his perspective on life.

He said that from outer space, the earth looks small compared to other planets. It is amazing to realise from up there, we are actually all from one place and as citizens of Earth, we should solve problems from that perspective.

The trip was for a scientific mission to conduct experiments on liver cancer and leukaemia cells and protein crystallisation, in this case, lipases, a type of fat-breaking enzyme.

His experiences in space brought him closer to God. He appreciates more the beauty and the magnificent grandeur of God's creation. One of his most amazing experiences while up there was when he heard a call to prayer or Azan from the frontiers beyond.

He represents a symbol for many Muslim youths in this part of the world that religion should not become an easy reason or pretext for a person to stop pursuing their goals- dreams that mean well and can benefit mankind.

In space, under many limitations he tried to keep his religious obligations like performing prayers without losing his focus on the work he was entrusted to complete - the work that will benefit the human race as a whole.

The devoted Muslim also celebrated the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan at the space station and carried out scientific experiments.

He told the Bulletin that he will never forget the unique feelings he experienced when he broke the fast in space. He fasted for two days while he was in space. He said the start and end of his fasting was according to where they lifted off - Kazakhstan time. As an Angkasawan (Malay word for astronaut), his life continues today to inspire students.to take up and explore sciences.

Now, he also fights for zero poverty in his birthplace, Malaysia and has joined the campaign against global warming.

He recognises these as common threats for humanity. He joined awareness campaigns against pollution and runs charity events to tackle poverty.

He is currently in Brunei to give talks and help sell his books to inspire people and to help in what ever way he can to alleviate poverty.

The angkasawan marked a special achievement by being the first person in his country to travel into outer space.

Despite this spectacular feat, he still yearns to contribute to the society and join the fight against the global issues on poverty and pollution.

In the interview with the Bulletin, he stood firm on his goals by urging the people to believe in their dreams. He encouraged them to open up to students to influence them to pursue a career in the aerospace industry.

In 1999, he worked in the Kuala Lumpur General Hospital which he described as a noble profession.

He also wrote in Malaysian papers as he has a passion for writing. He also enjoys swimming.

In 2002, he helped the Afghan cause as well as in Cambodia a year later.

The main reason why he took medicine is to help the poor. He touches the issues on equality on how the less developed nations should be treated the same.

The degree holder in Bachelor of Medicine and Surgeon also recalled his experiences in India where he learnt the different types of diseases. He had no regrets and described it as an exciting place.

The Malaysian icon then went back to his homeland to pursue for his Masters but dropped out to pursue his ultimate challenge of being an astronaut.

He had to compete with 110, 425 applicants where four were chosen to travel to Russia for a programme for a year. The Malaysian also had to undergo rigorous training during his time there.

He detailed his achievements such as taking part in the humanitarian work and his time in outer space in his country's papers where he also worked as a writer.

As he progressed in pursuing his ambitions, he encouraged people who have dreams to live up to their billing and standards, and stay positive while not neglecting their duties in Islam.

His success is determined by his never-ending drive to succeed and push himself further.

The angkasawan endured a wonderful life-changing experience during his time in outer space which typifies how far a person can go in overcome tough obstacles.

He also spoke of his future plans to add to his illustrious achievements by being a pilot by 2013.

He also hopes to play an integral part in the shake-up of UNICEF.

His charitable effort of tackling the demanding topics of poverty and pollution marks his true warmth and generosity.

On his second trip to the Sultanate, he found the Bruneian community to be humble, fascinating and complacent.

He found the Bruneian people to be very friendly, open-minded and intellectual.

He encouraged Bruneian students to become doctors, noting that it was not easy to manage the tasks as it required high physical and mental levels.

The angkasawan is the ninth Muslim to travel into outer space.

He also discussed religious affairs with the scholars such as praying times and other relevant issues. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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