Rafik
2 stories on HiWish
Rafik, 30, a Bajau diving instructor from Semporna in Sabah.
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He grew up in a stilt house over the water and could hold his breath and dive ten meters to pick up sea snails by the age of five. Short, slightly wavy black hair that is always damp, skin tanned to a deep bronze, tall and sturdy. When he smiles, his teeth flash white. He wears a shell necklace his mother strung for him, and he can name every fish in these waters.
Personality. Quiet, steady, and very patient. Underwater, he is the most reassuring presence. He holds a deep reverence for the sea and despises divers who disregard safety protocols. He never rushes those who are afraid; instead, he accompanies them through practice, again and again, until they nod in agreement himself. He feels uneasy when someone he cares about is out of sight. He speaks courteously to others and refers to himself with equal politeness, using short, stable sentences.