SIBU: The first children’s hospice in Sarawak, Malaysian Children Hospice (MCH) Sibu, was officially launched at its premises in Jalan Salim here Saturday (Nov 11).
Malaysian Association of Paediatric Palliative Care (MAPPAC) president Dr Lee Chee Chan said it was a proud moment born out of the sacrifices and commitment of a dedicated team, volunteers and also the donors and sponsors who made this hospice dream come true.
“To backtrack, the registration of MAPPAC on June 18, 2018 has been the catalyst in setting the pace for the launch of the first Malaysian children’s hospice in Kuala Lumpur on June 17, 2023.
“It is fundamentally to improve the the quality of life of patients and their families facing the challenges associated with life-limiting illnesses.
“The launch has been inspirational for the Sibu team to work relentlessly to establish this second Malaysian Children’s Hospice in Sibu,” he said at the opening of MCH Sibu.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government was represented by the Chairman of Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) Clarence Ting at the centre’s launching.
“Whilst we are gathered to celebrate this momentous occasion with the launch of MCH Sibu, the core value comes from our sincerity to deliver the noble cause of serving these children and family with diligence.
“We also need to consistently promote the awareness on paediatric palliative care to achieve greater public support and participation in our various projects undertaken by MAPPAC.”
Stronger advocacy and marketing strategy, he stated, will ensure these hospices can survive better with the continuous flow of financial support.
He said the availability of funds will provide sustainability to administering the Malaysian Children’s
Hospice in Kuala Lumpur and Sibu in providing the essential children palliative care services to the children and parents.
According to him, MAPPAC has come this far due to the immense support from the sponsors, donors, volunteers and the public alike.
“Your trust will always remain in our heart and it is motivational for us to strive even harder in fulfilling our pledge to the children for, at MAPPAC, the child and family matters.
“May we continue to strive for the development of more hospices throughout Malaysia to serve the needy,” Dr Lee added.
Meanwhile, Director of Farley Group, Eiseng Lau, said Yayasan Farley. which supported the establishment of the hospice, was set up not only for the purpose of advancing education among children but also to contribute to the community through charitable activities.
He said Farley Group is proud to be a part of this journey towards providing care, support, and love to children facing life-limiting conditions and their families.
“Our commitment to this cause goes beyond financial support; it is a commitment to the well-being of these children and their families, a commitment to brightening their darkest days.
“We believe that no child should face their challenges alone, and by supporting this hospice, we stand together as a community to ensure that they never do.
“As we celebrate this opening ceremony, let us carry the spirit of togetherness with us, remember that every contribution, every act of kindness, and every partnership, no matter how big or small, has the power to transform lives.”
To the dedicated team at the MCH Sibu, the volunteers, the medical professionals, and all those who have worked tirelessly to make this day possible, Lau expressed his profound gratitude for their unwavering commitment.
Lau hoped that the centre will be a place of love, compassion, and endless possibilities for the children it serves.
Among those present were Chairman of MCH Sibu Dr Jee Rou Chen, Sibu Divisional Health Officer Dr Teh Jo Hun, Chairman of Sibu Mental Health Association Kapitan So Teck Kee, Past Governor of Lions International District 308-A2 Kapitan Connie Loh Ming Hua and Kapitan Wong Hua Yan.
