IPOH: Malaysia’s first woman dermatologist, Datuk Dr Madhuri Majumder, a widely respected humanitarian and community leader, passed away on Wednesday (May 13) at the age of 93.
Often fondly referred to as the “Mother Teresa of Ipoh”, Dr Madhuri was celebrated not only for her pioneering role in dermatology but also for her lifelong dedication to mental health advocacy, social welfare and community development.
Throughout her career, she played a leading role in various professional and civic organisations, and was widely recognised for bridging medical service with humanitarian work.
Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Perak branch chairman Dr Monesh Pillai said the Ipoh-based dermatologist and community figure made significant contributions to both the medical and social sectors in Perak, leaving behind a legacy of decades-long service.
He said Dr Madhuri made history as the first female chairperson of the Perak MMA branch in 1982, and later became the first female president of the Rotary Club of Greentown in 1995.
“She remained active in Rotary activities up to 2020 and continued to mentor and support community initiatives over the years,” he said when contacted Thursday (May 14).
Dr Monesh added that Dr Madhuri was also deeply involved in Covid-19 relief efforts, contributing to welfare support during the pandemic.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr Madhuri served as president of the Perak Society for the Promotion of Mental Health (PSPMH) since 1986, where she introduced rehabilitation and therapy programmes for patients with psychosocial illnesses.
These included music and dance therapy, orchid farming, ceramics and art projects, handicrafts, and counselling services.
“She strongly advocated against stigma, referring to patients as ‘residents’ and emphasising dignity and inclusion in society,” he said.
In recognition of her commitment to education and social upliftment, Dr Madhuri launched the Majumder Scholarship Fund on her 80th birthday to support underprivileged children, further cementing her legacy of service and compassion.
Ipoh Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) president Ricky Soong has paid tribute to the organisation’s founder and first president, describing her as a guiding light whose compassion and lifelong service left a lasting impact on both people and animals.
He said her passing marked the loss of a remarkable individual whose wisdom, kindness and dedication would continue to be felt through the lives she had touched.
“She was the founder and first president of ISPCA, and devoted much of her life to animal welfare and humanitarian service,” he said.
Soong recalled meeting her in his early days as an animal welfare volunteer, saying she had patiently guided him despite his lack of experience.
“She never looked down on me and taught me to carry out responsibilities with care and commitment,” he said.
He added that she was humble and graceful, treating everyone equally, from volunteers to the vulnerable animals under their care.
