This Malaysian Content Creator Overcame Her Fear of Graveyards to Become a Professional Gravekeeper

Graveyards have long carried a reputation for being eerie and unsettling. With the many urban legends, ghost stories and taboos surrounding them, it's hardly surprising that many people would rather stay away unless they have a reason to visit.

For 33-year-old Nurain Fatin Abdul Rasid, that fear was once very real.

Growing up, she was the kind of child who was easily frightened. Yet today, she makes a living as a gravekeeper, tending to the final resting places of loved ones on behalf of their families.

A major career shift

Before entering the gravekeeping industry, Nurain Fatin worked in content and production, holding roles as a content creator, manager, assistant producer, production manager and operations manager.

Her career took an unexpected turn when she noticed that many graves appeared poorly maintained, making it difficult for family members to visit and honour their loved ones comfortably.

Although the transition was a drastic one, Nurain Fatin, who is also known online as "Sis Kubur", said she was grateful to have the support of her family when she decided to become a freelance gravekeeper.

Image Credit: Sis Kubur

According to Nurain Fatin, her workday typically runs from 10 AM to 6 PM. On average, she tends to between seven and 10 graves a day, with the highest number she's handled in a single day being 13.

While she offers a variety of gravekeeping services, grave maintenance remains her core focus.

"Most of my clients contact me through WhatsApp or TikTok. Many of them live far away and have other responsibilities, so they're looking for someone who can consistently care for their loved ones' graves."

Nurain Fatin said clients would typically ask about the services she offers and request photos of her previous work before deciding whether to proceed. Once they are comfortable with the pricing, both parties will arrange a suitable date and time for the maintenance work to be carried out.

She explained that pricing varies depending on the condition of the grave and the services required. For regular maintenance, she typically charges between RM50 and RM100 per month.

At present, Nurain Fatin's services cover areas including USJ 22, Shah Alam, Kajang, Bangi, Semenyih, Kota Damansara and Ukay Perdana.

The ups and downs

While some may find her profession unusual, Nurain Fatin sees it as much more than simply cleaning graves.

For her, the work is about helping families ensure their loved ones' resting places remain cared for, especially when they are unable to do so themselves.

Image Credit: Sis Kubur (Image provided to Rojak Daily)

Like many jobs, gravekeeping comes with its own challenges. For Nurain Fatin, one of the toughest aspects is spending long hours working under the hot sun.

As for anything supernatural, she said she has never experienced anything particularly strange despite regularly working in cemeteries.

"Sometimes I smell fragrances that are surprisingly pleasant and difficult to explain. Other than that, I've never experienced anything out of the ordinary."

Many people assume that gravekeeping is simply about tidying up cemeteries and cutting overgrown grass. However, Nurain Fatin said the job requires consistency, time and effort.

According to her, maintaining a grave goes beyond basic landscaping and involves ensuring that the site remains well cared for over time.

"Many people think I'm brave because I do this job, but I didn't start out that way."

She explained, "When I first began, I would play Quranic verses on YouTube to help calm myself while working. It felt eerie at times, but I kept reminding myself of the trust my customers had placed in me, and that motivated me to keep going."

Throughout her career, Nurain Fatin said she has encountered many touching stories. However, she chooses not to share them publicly out of respect for her clients' privacy.

Image Credit: Sis Kubur (Image provided to Rojak Daily)

If there's one lesson her work has taught her, it's the importance of appreciating family and loved ones while they are still around.

"We always think we have plenty of time with our family, but the reality is that life is fleeting. Seeing so many graves made me realise that each person buried there was once deeply loved by someone. That experience has made me appreciate the people around me much more."

Building an online presence

For Nurain Fatin, social media has played a crucial role in helping her grow her business.

Beyond connecting with customers, it has also become a platform where she shares tips and information on grave maintenance with people who may not have access to her services.

"I never expected the response I've received. Many social media users have told me they've tried some of the maintenance tips I've shared and have been able to care for their loved ones' graves themselves."

"They may not be my customers, but knowing that I've helped them solve a problem is incredibly rewarding," she added.

Looking ahead, Nurain Fatin hopes to expand both her business and service coverage so she can help more families in need of gravekeeping and maintenance services.

To keep up with Nurain Fatin's gravekeeping journey and pick up useful grave maintenance tips, follow her on TikTok.

Featured Image Credit: Sis Kubur