Mohd Shah Rosli, aka Dino, a member of '90s Malaysian hip hop group Nico G suffered a stroke three weeks ago after eating too many durians in one sitting.

The 50-year-old singer believes the stroke was a result of having poor eating habits and being a long-term smoker. 

"I love eating durians. I have to have them whenever the durian season comes by. The day before [the stroke], I ate seven durians. Tragedy happened the very next morning. I was working when I suddenly suffered a stroke, the whole right side of my body went numb. When I was speaking to the doctor, my mouth still smelled of durians," he told Malaysian media.

Dino's medical examination revealed that his arteries were blocked, and he had to receive treatment in the hospital for two weeks before being able to return home. 

Despite being on high blood pressure medication and blood thinners, Dino has lost the ability to use his right hand and leg. 

Dino revealed that he was initially unable to move his body at all, and he could not speak clearly. 

"But I've been giving my all to [exercise] every single day, and my condition has improved in recent times. I will be more cautious about my diet in the future, and also take my medication regularly. I will need to continue taking anticoagulants in order to avoid having cholesterol build-up," he added.

Dino, who also works as a sales rep at a shopping centre, is currently on medical leave. He has received a RM500 (S$152) donation from his company, but the amount is nowhere near enough to cover his medical bills. 

He told Malaysian media: "After a month, I now have no income. So I'm asking for help. I'm now relying on my existing savings for all my expenses."

Dino also revealed he needs to return to the hospital for follow-up consultations every two weeks, and is looking into alternative or traditional treatment methods, which include massage therapy that costs RM200 (S$61) a session. 

Dino is a beneficiary of Ziarah Seni Madani, a welfare scheme organised by the country's National Film Development Corporation (FINAS), aimed at helping veteran actors and artistes in need. Dino has received cash donations and food hampers from the government agency as part of the scheme. 

Malaysia's Deputy Minister of Communications, both the chairman and CEO of FINAS, as well as the Malaysian Artists Association Chairman paid Dino a visit at his Kampung Baru home on Aug 4 in order to express their sympathies and offer him assistance.

Photos: 8world, CNA