Surviving Cardiac Arrest | Muhammad Alif’s Journey

A sudden heart attack turned Muhammad Alif Abdullah’s life upside down. Thanks to swift action and expert cardiac care at Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), he’s now embracing a healthier future.

Heart Attack Symptoms That Seemed Like an Allergy
“One morning, I woke up feeling itchy all over,” Alif recalls. “Then in the shower, I noticed my face was bloated. I thought it was just an allergy.” Concerned, he asked his family to drive him to Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC). But on the way, everything changed.

“Suddenly, I felt severe chest pain. My face went back to normal, and that’s when I knew something was really wrong.”

Emergency Heart Attack Treatment at SJMC
When Alif arrived at SJMC’s Emergency Department, the team immediately performed an ECG. The results were alarming—he was having a heart attack. Moments later, he collapsed.

What followed was nothing short of extraordinary. Alif’s heart stopped for about an hour. Dr Navin Sukilan, Consultant Cardiologist & the ER team performed prolonged CPR and shocked his heart more than 20 times to restore a rhythm. He was then rushed to the cardiac catheterisation lab for an urgent angiography, which revealed the culprit: a totally blocked right coronary artery.

The cardiac team performed life-saving angioplasty to restore blood flow. Alif was ventilated and monitored in ICU, and by the next day, he began his journey to recovery.

Dr. Navin who led the intervention, explains: “Alif’s case was one of the most critical we’ve seen. His survival after prolonged cardiac arrest is truly remarkable and highlights the importance of rapid intervention and teamwork.”

Blessed to Have Survived
“When I woke up in ICU, I saw my kids, my wife, and my friends around me,” Alif says. “Only later did I learn what had happened—that my heart had stopped for an hour, that they fought for me with CPR and shocks. The doctors even told my family not to have too much hope for 72 hours. Yet here I am, talking to you today.”

Alif calls his survival a blessing. “I’m very thankful to Dr. Navin and his team, and to everyone in the Emergency Department who worked on me.”

Heart Attack Recovery: Lifestyle Changes That Saved Alif’s Life
Physically, Alif still has slight weakness in his left hand, but he’s determined to live differently. “Since being discharged, I’ve lost about 9 kilos. I’m on zero sugar, reduced red meat, and small portions of rice. I walk 5–6 km every morning without fail. Before, I would get tired easily. Now, I feel stronger and more energetic.” His diabetes is better controlled, and even his kidney function has returned to normal.

Support That Made a Difference – And Why He Shares His Story
Throughout his recovery, Alif was surrounded by unwavering support. His daughters stood by him every step of the way, and his close friends—Rafi, Satya, and Vijay—were a constant source of strength for both him and his family. Alongside them, the doctors, nurses, and the entire cardiac team at SJMC worked tirelessly to ensure his survival and recovery.

This experience has given Alif a new perspective on life and health. He now feels a strong responsibility to share his story as a reminder to others: take your health seriously before it’s too late. Ignoring warning signs can have devastating consequences. Today, Alif actively guides his children and family toward healthier habits, determined to prevent them from facing the same ordeal he went through.

The Medical Perspective
Alif’s case was managed by a multidisciplinary cardiac team at SJMC. He presented on 8 October 2025 with ventricular fibrillation and cardiac arrest, requiring prolonged CPR and defibrillation. Coronary angiography confirmed an inferior myocardial infarction due to a totally occluded right coronary artery. Urgent angioplasty saved his life, followed by intensive care and cardiac rehabilitation. He was discharged on 12 October and continues to do well under follow-up care.

Key Takeaway
Heart attacks can strike without warning. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or unusual symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. Early treatment saves lives—just like it did for Alif. Going for a heart health screening can also help pick up abnormalities before they turn serious.