SINGAPORE - The 23-year-old motorcyclist who died in an accident on Seletar Expressway (SLE) on Sunday (Sept 10) afternoon has been identified as Faiz Salim, the eldest of five children.
The Straits Times understands that the police NSman's motorcycle had skidded and hit a lorry along the SLE, towards the Bukit Timah Expressway, around 1.30pm.
His friend, who gave his name only as Mr Salam, told ST that Mr Faiz was buried at around 4pm on Monday, after rites and prayers at his Woodlands home.
"He was a very close buddy of mine," said Mr Salam. "I first met him in NS last May. We were in the same team. He was a very good guy, very fun to be with, someone you can depend on. He would bring his laughter with him everywhere he went."
Mr Salam, 23, said he first found out that Mr Faiz was in trouble from a friend on social media, who asked him if Mr Faiz was in hospital.
"I was shocked and asked why he was in hospital. I texted and called Faiz but he didn't reply," he said.
"I thought it was just a normal accident, until his sister told me he had already left us. My heart sank. I could not believe what I heard," said Mr Salam, who was recently declared operationally ready and is unemployed.
He last met Mr Faiz on Saturday, when they went to the gym together.
On social media, friends have been paying tribute to Mr Faiz, including Mr Eddy Wahid, who posted a photo of Mr Faiz on Sunday.
"Those who know my dearest brother Faiz... He met with an accident this afternoon and he just passed away," he wrote.
Commenting on his post, Mr Luqman Nurhakeem said Mr Faiz was "a good and thoughtful friend".
"May Allah grant him peace in the heavens and may He ease the grief of his family and friends," he wrote.
Facebook user Kiki CuteCute said the news was shocking as they were just texting the day before.
"Still remember the day we made friends... I'm going to miss you so much, bro... Your book has ended but our prayers will always be with you," he wrote. "Al fateha to you buddy. You will be missed. It's time for you to rest."
ST understands that the 48-year-old lorry driver involved in the accident is assisting in investigations.
