Ting (sixth left) cuts a cake to symbolically launch the fundraising dinner. He is joined by Dr Teh (fifth right), Dr Jee (seventh right) and Dr Nanthakumar (eighth right). — Photo by Peter Boon
SIBU (Nov 10): The demand for paediatric palliative care continues to grow in Malaysia, with nearly 80,000 children requiring such care each year, said Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
He said that in Sibu alone, about 2,000 children live with serious illnesses.
“Yet, only a small number can receive the support they need,” he said at the Malaysian Children’s Hospice Sibu 2nd Anniversary charity fundraising dinner here on Sunday night.
“That is why tonight’s event carries such a deep significance. This is a call for unity and compassion. The funds raised tonight will sustain essential services, support staffing and operations, and most importantly, ensure no child is left without care or comfort,” he said.
Tiong’s text-of-speech was read by a political secretary to the Premier, Joshua Ting, who represented him.
The Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman firmly believed that when the government, community, corporate partners, and individuals come together, they can make a real and lasting difference.
He said each contribution, no matter how small, lightens a family’s burden, brings comfort to a suffering child, and sustains this vital community service.
Tiong recalled that in November 2023, the hospice was founded through the dedication of healthcare professionals, volunteers and the generosity of the community.
“Since then, it has grown into a beacon of hope for families in Sibu and its surrounding areas. The hospice does not only provide medical and nursing care, but also emotional, psychological and spiritual support to children and their loved ones during the most difficult moments of their lives.
“This is a noble and deeply human mission—one that reflects the very best of our Malaysian values of compassion, service, and unity.”
He said that he had been informed that the hospice operated with only one full-time nurse, who also handles administrative duties while managing 30 to 40 home visits each month to care for about 20 children.
“This is a truly extraordinary effort, and I commend the team for their unwavering dedication and perseverance,” he said.
Also present were Sibu Hospital director Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu, Malaysian Children’s Hospice Sibu chairman Dr Jee Rou Chen, Sibu Divisional Health officer Dr Teh Jo Hun, former Bukit Assek assemblywoman Irene Chang and Farley Group chairman Lau Siew Whye.
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