Yusuf Malmsa, a warm-hearted man from northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has devoted himself to free rescue missions in the uninhabited lands along the Taxkorgan–Yarkant trail for years, keeping watch over travelers day and night.
Years ago, during a climbing accident on Muztagh Ata, two Uyghur brothers sacrificed their lives to save him. From that moment on, he made it his mission to help others in their honor.
Back on the Taxkorgan–Yarkant trail, he formed a rescue team with local Tajik villagers. What began as a one-man effort has grown into a shared mission. Together, they have upheld the sacred duty of safeguarding lives.
Falling rocks, landslides, lost travelers... Over the years, he and his team have ventured into danger time and again, asking for nothing in return.
Today, this ancient trail is not only a lifeline for local villagers, but also a path of unity, one that transcends ethnic boundaries.
Yusuf Malmsa, who says his name means "a ray of light," has become just that in the depths of the Tianshan Mountains -- not only lighting the treacherous path ahead, but also touching the hearts of those who walk it.
As more and more travelers pass through these unforgiving lands, his quiet presence continues to guide them with warmth, courage, and hope.
Man devotes life to free rescue missions in Xinjiang’s uninhabited lands
After the devastating fire at the housing complex Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the central government, Hong Kong authorities, and people from across China have joined forces in a massive outpouring of relief and support.
The blaze, the deadliest Hong Kong had witnessed for decades, broke out at around 14:50 on Nov 26 at the eight-towered residential estate Wang Fuk Court, which was under renovation, in Tai Po district. The fire quickly engulfed seven of the towers, leaving at least 159 dead, 79 injured and thousands of families homeless.
According to the latest official update, the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, established by the HKSAR government, has received 3 billion Hong Kong dollars in external donations. Together with the HKSAR government's start-up capital of 300 million Hong Kong dollars, the fund stands at around 3.3 billion Hong Kong dollars in total. It will be used to help residents rebuild their homes and provide long-term support.
Following the fire, the HKSAR government has made comprehensive, multi-tiered rescue and resettlement efforts.
On the night of the blaze, the government promptly established temporary shelters at multiple locations across Tai Po district, coordinating accommodations in youth hostels, hotels, and transitional housing for affected residents. Emergency subsidies and living allowances were distributed to those impacted, while support was also provided through a "one household, one social worker" mechanism.
People from across Hong Kong have joined volunteer efforts, hoping to bring warmth to the wounded community, with donated supplies such as clothing, food, drinking water continuously arriving at temporary shelters.
Many taxi drivers have also volunteered to provide free rides.
"We work here from 08:00 in the morning to past 22:00 at night. We only leave when there are no passengers. That's how it is. It does affect earnings a bit. It definitely has an impact. But that's not important. The most important thing is to help others first," said Wong Chi-chuen, a taxi driver .
At the request of the HKSAR government, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council has coordinated the Ministry of Emergency Management to provide batches of supplies for the Tai Po fire relief effort, including portable outdoor charging stations, heavy-duty conveyors, blowers, respirators, goggles, protective suits, headlamps, and waterproof boots.
Mainland companies and residents, and various sectors in Macao also provided support following the devastating fire in Hong Kong, donating funds and supplies for emergency relief and post-disaster recovery.
"A large amount of supplies was collected and delivered to our disaster-stricken areas in a very short time. It made me realize what it means to be bound by blood. Because this kind of bond runs deep. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone," said Peter Lam, chairman of Tai Po Rural Committee.
Support from across China pours in after devastating fire in Hong Kong
