Murty’s Quest To Rediscovering Himself: A M’sian Singer-Amputee’s Story Of Triumph

By Lara Kramer  •  12 Jun 2023 in Features

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Life has a way of testing our mettle, presenting unforeseen challenges that can shatter our spirits and test the limits of our resilience. For Malaysian singer Murty, such a moment arrived like an unforgiving tempest, forever altering the course of his life.

In the grip of a harrowing road accident that took place in 2019, Murty lost his left leg to a sand truck, thrusting him into a world of excruciating pain and profound loss. Murty suffered recurring infections and excruciating agony over the following few days, making every hour seem like a monumental struggle.

The infection ultimately subsided after the amputation, relieving the physical suffering – but the loss extended far beyond tangible or bodily matters for him.

 

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Murty candidly confessed that with his limb, he lost something much deeper; his confidence and self-appreciation. The incident had cast doubt upon his future as a DJ and comedian. He felt as though his fundamental identity had been swayed and he wondered if he would ever be able to reclaim who he once was.

Among the many uneasy thoughts that ran through his mind, Murty wondered if he would he ever stand behind the turntables again, spinning beats that once ignited dance floors; or would he ever grace another stage, weaving laughter and joy through his jokes?

Today, he answers those questions.

Join us as we explore the depths of Murty’s experiences and the transformative power of inclusive beauty as we journey through his emotional voyage. Through his words, we will be able to witness the devastating effects of loss, the quest for self-acceptance, and the unending power that comes from accepting one’s own uniqueness.

In the realm of dreams and aspirations, Malaysian singer Murty once danced to the rhythm of his own beats as a DJ in the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur. From 2014 to 2015, his musical journey took flight, albeit timidly, as he navigated the performing arts scene with a sense of uncertainty and a lack of self-assurance. But with time, dedication, and unwavering determination, Murty began to find his footing, gradually growing and honing his craft as a DJ.

2017 marked a turning point in his career, as the universe seemed to smile upon him. More gigs came his way, and he ascended to new heights, earning recognition for his talent. Yet, beneath his outward success, a timid soul still wrestled with self-doubt. The performing arts, with its demanding nature, challenged him to the core, leaving him wondering if he truly had what it took to shine.

Then, as if the universe sought to test his resilience once more, 2019 arrived with an unrelenting blow that shattered his world. In August of that year, a life-altering accident struck, halting Murty’s momentum in its tracks. For four long months, which he describes as a series of “endless surgeries, painkillers, crying and screaming”, the hospital became his home, and immobility plagued his days and nights.

Witty Murty says, “It was hard being there and knowing it’s not something you can walk away from.”

Yet, as Murty would later recount, it was the mental anguish that truly tested his spirit during those challenging days. In the quiet depths of the night, he grappled with haunting questions of his stolen independence. Thoughts invaded his mind, wondering if he would forever rely on others for the simplest acts of self-care.

“In the wee hours of the morning I would think, if I got thirsty and couldn’t grab myself a grab of water, would I just sit here and die of dehydration?” he said.

Supportive faces surrounded him in the hospital, providing solace amidst the chaos, but the road to recovery remained treacherous. Murty emerged from the ordeal, his body forever altered, yet miraculously, his spirit intact. Looking back, he marvelled at the resilience that carried him through those dark hours, grateful to have emerged from the crucible with his sanity intact.

Embracing his newfound reality meant more than accepting the physical changes that life had imposed upon him. It was an inward transformation, a shift in perspective that allowed him to see the beauty in the ebb and flow of life’s unpredictable currents. Murty came to understand that scars, both seen and unseen, were an undeniable part of the human experience. Some wear their lives on a golden podium, while others bear the weight of wounds. And in this realisation, he found the solace and the courage needed to continue his journey.

It was during one poignant moment that the full extent of Murty’s resilience and the power of his story truly revealed itself. A producer he worked with, dispirited and lacking energy, found himself adrift in the sea of doubt. In that instant, Murty became a beacon of inspiration. With genuine empathy, he shared his own truth, reminding the producer of the invaluable gift of two legs and the limitless possibilities they held.

“I didn’t mean to downplay his feelings but I told him, as an amputee, I have maybe 30-35 years to live. The inactivity lowers my life expectancy. This is all i have. You might have more, or less, years to live, but you have your two legs. You can do anything you set your mind to.

“I think being in a position where i can advise others not to take their lives and health for granted is one advantage I have with my condition, when they take my advice the right way,” he asserted.

As he reflected on that transformative encounter, Murty recognised the unique advantage he possessed – a voice that could pierce through despair and instill hope in the hearts of others. Though he had endured moments of feeling excluded or misunderstood, he understood the immense power of his lived experiences to reshape perspectives and ignite flames of resilience in those who needed it most.

 

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In the aftermath of his hospital stay, Murty’s voice soared once more, this time through the medium of song. Posting heartfelt covers online, he witnessed the power of music to bridge gaps and touch hearts. Invitations to perform in various venues trickled in, but he couldn’t ignore the realities of his condition. His mobility, or lack thereof, became a significant consideration for potential collaborators. And while some hesitated to navigate the logistical challenges of accommodating an amputee on stage, Murty understood that it was not their fault but simply a matter of practicality.

Amidst these struggles, Murty remained steadfast in his conviction that positivity and self-acceptance were the keys to navigating life’s winding paths. In his mind, it was the only way to transcend the limitations imposed by societal norms and beauty standards. He had learned, through countless moments of self-reflection, that life did not always provide answers to the “whys” and “hows” of our existence. Yet, he believed that acceptance, coupled with an unyielding belief in one’s capabilities, could transform adversity into a source of empowerment.

Confidence, he acknowledged, did not make one immune to discrimination, but it armed individuals with a shield against the opinions and judgments of others. For Murty, the journey toward embracing one’s true self went hand in hand with cultivating a positive outlook. It was a message he shared with passion and empathy, especially to those grappling with disabilities or body image issues.

“You just do you. Things will happen to you regardless. you might draw the short end of the stick sometimes.  This is what i said to myself at the hospital. I asked myself countless times, why me? I didn’t even have a scar on my left leg prior to that accident. there were so many other bikers on the road that day; why me? I was at my fittest. I could deadlift 100 kilograms so why me?

“But here’s the thing. You won’t get an answer. You just have to accept it, and know that just because these things happened, doesn’t make you less of a person. Who you are as a person is in your mind, the body is just an instrument. That’s how you have to look it, because if not, you’re going to beat yourself up over it everyday, and still end up with no proper answers,” he concluded.

 

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In the face of life’s challenges, Murty had discovered the resilience that lay dormant within him all along. He understood that, even when dealt a losing hand, hope and strength could emerge, casting a brilliant light upon the darkest corners of existence.

And so, he embraced his scars, both physical and emotional, as badges of honour, testaments to the battles he had fought and the triumphs he had celebrated.

Today, as a sketch comedian and musical asset with The Line Up Malaysia, Murty continues to inspire others with his incredible journey, soulful voice, and of course – his sharp wit.

Follow him on Instagram to see what he’s up to these days, and maybe pre-save his new single “Let Me Know” while you’re at it…