(Right, from sixth onwards) Ting, Dr Jee and Dr Nanthakumar taking part in the celebration cake cutting.
THE demand for paediatric palliative care in Malaysia is growing each year but facilities and manpower still fall short.
In Sibu, Sarawak, alone, an estimated 2,000 children, living with serious illnesses, are in need of specialised support.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the situation was alarming as only a small number of the affected children were receiving assistance that they needed.
“At the Malaysian Children’s Hospice Sibu, for example, I was informed that there is only one full-time nurse responsible not only for care-related duties but also administrative work,” he said.
Despite the extremely limited manpower, the hospice was still able to carry out between 30 and 40 home visits a month to support about 20 children, he added.
“This effort is remarkable, and I truly appreciate the dedication and commitment of the team, who have sacrificed much for the well-being of children in need,” he said at the Malaysian Children’s Hospice Sibu Second Anniversary Charity Dinner.
His speech was read by his representative Joshua Ting, political secretary to Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.
Tiong said nearly 80,000 children across the country required paediatric palliative care annually, underscoring the importance of strengthening these services.
He described the charity event not merely as an anniversary celebration but as a call for the community to come together and demonstrate compassion towards those in need.
“The funds raised tonight will be used to support operations, enhance staffing, and ensuring that every child receives the care and comfort they deserve,” he said.
Tiong added that the hospice was not only a place for physical treatment but also a centre offering emotional, psychological and spiritual support to young patients and their families during their most challenging moments.
“The establishment of the Malaysian Children’s Hospice Sibu in November 2023 is a testament to the dedication of healthcare professionals, volunteers and community’s generosity.
“In just two years, it has grown into a symbol of hope for families in Sibu and the surrounding areas,” he said.
Also present were Sibu Divisional Health officer Dr Teh Jo Hun, Sibu Hospital director Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu and Malaysian Children’s Hospice Sibu chairman Dr Jee Rou Chen.
