Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21

Amidst the urban tapestry of Shah Alam, lies Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21. It’s more than just a cemetery. It’s a poignant reflection of life and loss, intertwined with the story of a city grappling with a pandemic. Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21 became a designated burial ground for Muslim Covid-19 victims. This decision, part of the Pengurusan Jenazah Covid-19 Berpusat initiative, aimed to streamline the burial process. It was meant to alleviate the strain on hospitals and manage the overwhelming number of deaths during the pandemic’s peak. The measure, implemented by the Selangor state government, reflects the difficult choices faced during a public health crisis. Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21 stands as a testament to these times. One caretaker, known only as Man, has witnessed the somber procession of funerals. He recounted that 187 Covid-19 victims were laid to rest in Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21 since the pandemic began. He remembers days with as many as twelve burials. The victims, he noted, ranged in age from their thirties to eighties. While the pandemic’s shadow lingers, life continues. The Majlis Bandaraya Shah Alam (MBSA) has established visiting hours for Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21. Between 8-10 am and 1-3 pm, people can visit their loved ones. Visits are limited to 20 minutes, and only two fully vaccinated visitors are allowed per grave. The cemetery closes between 10 am and 1 pm, and again from 3 pm to 7 pm. This closure allows hospital staff to manage Covid-19 burials with the necessary protocols. Tanah Perkuburan Islam Seksyen 21 serves as a sobering reminder of the pandemic’s impact. Yet, it also stands as a symbol of resilience and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.