One of the attractions of the Kajang Fair is the Body Beautiful Contest. Kassim bin Abd. Wahab beat all the opposition and became winner. He had the most beautiful and muscular body – bulging biceps, muscular stomach and thighs. He was crowned "Mister Kajang." He was then in Form 3C. When the Head Master, Mr. Bumford was told about Kassim’s success, he was amazed but greatly pleased. Kassim had brought a kind of fame to the school. He became an instant icon and started a craze among his school-mates.Every body wanted to become a body-builder and started pumping iron in the secrecy of his backyard and garage.
According to Kassim, in an interview many years later, Mr. Bumford told him to develop his brain as well. But at the same time he encouraged Kassim to continue his body building regime. He also regularly provided him with fresh eggs as an incentive.
At such a young age, Kassim was not only known for his muscular physique but also for cultivating inter-ethnic good-will and relationship. He played hockey and cricket for the Kajang Indo-Ceylonese Sport Club. He played soccer for Kajang Malays. Kassim said, in a recent interview, his Indian school mate, Ruben used to fetch and drive him to the match venue in town. He even supplied him with fresh cow’s milk before every match.
Kassim also revealed that a teacher in school, Mr. V. Pathmanathan had kindly offered to tutor him in English and other subjects at which he was wanting. But he politely declined.
Kassim married at age 24. He has four children and several grandchildren. He has been to Mecca for the haj. Now he lives in solitude and isolation in Batu 13 where he has built for himself a modest but pleasant country home. He seldom goes to town except on occasions when he has to get his pension.He says he enjoys such a life. Our ex-iron man doesn’t look his 83 years. He is still handsome, sprightly, fit, ever-smiling and the serenity and peace within show through.
Hanafiah Lubis .
KHS Alumnus 1956
Kassim also revealed that a teacher in school, Mr. V. Pathmanathan had kindly offered to tutor him in English and other subjects at which he was wanting. But he politely declined.
Kassim married at age 24. He has four children and several grandchildren. He has been to Mecca for the haj. Now he lives in solitude and isolation in Batu 13 where he has built for himself a modest but pleasant country home. He seldom goes to town except on occasions when he has to get his pension.He says he enjoys such a life. Our ex-iron man doesn’t look his 83 years. He is still handsome, sprightly, fit, ever-smiling and the serenity and peace within show through.
Hanafiah Lubis .
KHS Alumnus 1956
Dear Vasantha,In all humulity,I hope this piecewill suit your purpose.
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