Despite this mishap, Mohd Rosdi never lost his spirit. Today, the 56-year-old is helping others in his position by modifying manual wheelchairs, in his role as a “customer-specific wheelchair-modification technician” at the USM-MAIK Disabled Transformation Centre in Kubang Kerian here.

“I leveraged my nearly 29 years of experience and knowledge as a mechanic to master the skills of repairing and modifying wheelchairs according to the needs of the disabled,” he told Bernama recently.

Having embarked down this path in 2022, Mohd Rosdi can now fix and customise an average of three wheelchairs a day, including wheel repairs.

“Many patients require wheelchairs that suit their condition, with foldable options such as armrests and footrests, the ability to recline, and so on. These elements can be realised through modification,” he explained, adding that prices range from RM130 to RM700.

After each wheelchair is customised, he personally tests it out to ensure it is in good mobile condition and suitable for the disabled user, including being easy to push.

The alterations, he noted, are done according to guidelines issued by the World Health Organisation for wheelchair modification. To date, Mohd Rosdi has worked on more than 300 wheelchairs.

“This service is offered to all disabled persons, who can also receive training in wheelchair usage and mobility at the USM-MAIK Disabled Transformation Centre, so they can continue with their daily routines with confidence,” he concluded.

USM-MAIK Disabled Transformation Centre
Kampus Kesihatan USM Kubang Kerian,
16150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan