Hiang (in dark suit) handing over a mock cheque to Chua (in white batik) during the event in Mentakab. — Courtesy photo
Pahang Buddhist Association (PBA) raised RM2.28mil during a charity dinner in aid of disadvantaged renal failure patients.
The amount meant for the association’s haemodialysis centre in Mentakab was achieved through the generosity of individuals and private firms, said event organising chairman Datuk Hiang A Li.
“We would like to express our gratitude to donors for their continuous support towards a noble cause.
“The amount raised will go a long way towards assisting needy patients who need long-term dialysis treatment due to chronic renal failure.
“It is heartening to note that many people are still willing to contribute and give back to society despite the present challenging times,” he said during the event held at SMJK Hwa Lian in Mentakab.
Hiang, who is also SMJK Hwa Lian board of governors chairman, thanked staff of PBA Mentakab haemodialysis centre and volunteers who worked tirelessly to look after the patients.
He said the success of the fundraiser would motivate them further, knowing that the society and public at large still cared for the less fortunate and sickly.
Separately, PBA deputy president Datuk Franky Chua Goon Eng said the number of patients has increased each year, while more young people were being diagnosed with renal failure.
“I hope people will take care of their health, exercise regularly and observe a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
“Our heartfelt thanks to the public for their continuous support so that we can continue to give quality treatment to needy patients,” he said, acknowledging Hiang and his team for their efforts in organising the donation drive.
Chua said the PBA Kuantan haemodialysis centre was set up in 1996 as a non-profit entity to help needy renal patients.
In 2018, a second centre was opened to assist those residing in Temerloh and Mentakab.
“Over the years, about 360 patients, especially those who could not afford to pay the full fees, benefitted from the initiative.
“The PBA Mentakab centre has 62 registered patients with 28 of them still receiving treatment,” he said.
Chua said PBA had set a new benchmark by becoming the first non-governmental organisation in the country to offer haemodiafiltration (HDF) treatment, the highest standard of dialysis available, at both centres.
“These HDF machines can significantly reduce complications post-dialysis, aligning with the centre’s goal of helping patients resume their daily lives,” he said.
Due to an increase in operating costs, he said the Mentakab centre exceeded its budget by over RM360,000 last year, which led to the fundraising event.
The event also saw performances by musical troupes and artistes, apart from health experts sharing information on prevention of kidney disease.
