VOLUNTARY humanitarian organisation St John Ambulance of Malaysia (SJAM) marked its 118th anniversary with a charity dinner.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to community healthcare while receiving RM40,000 in government support.
The charity event in Pudu, Kuala Lumpur, was attended by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh, who announced a RM20,000 contribution to SJAM and another RM20,000 for its Federal Territories chapter.
Yeoh expressed appreciation for SJAM’s long-standing role in community healthcare.
“In an emergency, a few minutes can mean the difference between life and death.
“That is when the presence of a capable and well-trained team becomes invaluable,” she said.
She added that SJAM had served Malaysians for decades through ambulance services, disaster relief, mobile clinics and community health programmes.
Welcoming the launch of SJAM’s Mobile Healthcare Unit, Yeoh said it would bring healthcare services closer to senior citizens, low-income families, underserved communities and those affected by disasters.
“The safety and well-being of the people are not solely the responsibility of the government, but a shared community effort,” she highlighted.
SJAM commander-in-chief Datuk Lai See Ming said proceeds from the charity dinner would help expand the organisation’s humanitarian works.
“The funds raised will strengthen our emergency ambulance response, community healthcare programmes, first-aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) education, youth development and disaster relief initiatives.”
Lai added that SJAM would continue expanding its outreach while working with government agencies, healthcare institutions and community partners to bring healthcare services and first-aid education closer to the people.
SJAM deputy commander-in-chief Datuk Seri Dr Chee Hong Leong said the organisation would continue modernising its operations.
“Our goal is to equip more people with life-saving skills, boost confidence in performing CPR and using AEDs (automated external defibrillators), and improve emergency preparedness in schools, workplaces and communities,” said Dr Chee.
