Cover image via @mdmotivator (Instagram)
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Ahmed al Ahmed has received a cheque for more than USD2.5 million (approximately RM10.5 million), raised by over 43,000 donors worldwide inspired by his bravery in tackling a gunman at Bondi Beach
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Ahmed's actions helped save more than 30 people during a Hanukkah event attended by over 1,000 at the famed beach on Sunday, 14 December.
The cheque was presented to Ahmed at his hospital bed in St George Hospital by Zachery Dereniowski, a Canadian social media influencer and co-organiser of the GoFundMe campaign that drew donations from thousands around the world.
Notable contributors reportedly include American billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, Hollywood comedian Amy Schumer, and Australian musician The Kid Laroi.
In the video, Ahmed is heard asking, "I deserve it?" to which Dereniowski replies, "Every penny"
When asked what message he had for people worldwide who hailed him as a hero, Ahmed said it was important to "stand with each other", raising his fist as he called for unity.
"When I saved the people, I did it from the heart. It was a beautiful day β everyone was celebrating with their kids, women, men, teenagers. Everyone was happy, and they deserved to enjoy it.
"It's their right. This country is the best country in the world, but we're not going to just stand and keep watching β enough is enough. God protect Australia. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie," he said.
