KOTA KINABALU: The 19th fundraising dinner of Palliative Care Association Kota Kinabalu (PCAKK) saw recognition being given to   Datuk Dr Ranjit Mathew Oommen, who passed away on May 3.

Guests observed a moment of silence in remembrance of the late Ranjit, who the PCAKK described as a “great man” who mooted the forming of PCAKK 20 years ago.

Ranjit’s daughter, Amy Mathew, gave a speech recalling the good work and sacrifice of her father in his active years.

Meanwhile, his widow Datin Dr Molly, who is medical advisor of PCAKK, was present to witness the launching of the book, “The Legend”, in honour of Dr Ranjit’s services in Sabah. In the Chief Minister’s speech read by his representative, Norazlinah, commended the good work of PCAKK over the years.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. PCAKK has shown and given so much to the society – in contributing talents, time and creativity. 

“Over the years, we read about many achievements and accomplishments of many notable people, but you, the PCAKK had contributed something else – your example,” he said, adding that the Sabah Government encourage and support this good work.

Efforts and energies of the members, volunteers and staff not only for their willingness to support the association to provide palliative care to the terminally ill individuals, but also to the team who have worked hard to raise funds to enable the association to purchase the necessary items needed to run PCAKK care home.

“The commitment by these people who are involved are indeed commendable,” said Norazlinah.

Organising chairperson Datuk Margaret Lim also conveyed her appreciation to the Management of Sutera Harbour Resort for their continuous and strong support in providing the venue for the charity performances which inevitably made all the events a huge success and created a benchmark for international shows to help those in need.

In the previous shows, Sutera Harbour hosted famous impersonators of Abba, Deep Creek Road, Kylie Minogue, Tina Turner, Bee Gees, Boney M and 3 Degrees, among others. This year, PCAKK invited Elvis Presley impersonator Gary Anderson from Australia.

Margaret attributed the success of the event by the teamwork of her committees because without their cooperation and support, the event would not be a success.

She also said those who had purchased their raffle tickets, results would be broadcasted on Nov 30. The announcement will be made in the social media accordingly.

Among those recognised for their contributions were J Ambrose & Partners – Riorn Lee; Sutera Harbour Resort – Gerard Tan; Richard Lee; Sounds Tech Production Sdn Bhd – Kenny Siau; All Best Entertainer – Steven Chan, Angkatan Hebat Sdn Bhd; Winecellar – Meng Tan, The Voice Factory – Rene Barrow; Kelab Larian Kinabalu – Anslem  Tan, and  Eastport Marine Sdn Bhd – Datuk Captain Walter Nair, among others.

A cheque amounting to RM100,000 by J Ambrose & Partners was presented to president Rokiah on behalf of PCAKK, as well as contributions from other associations and individuals.

The event also saw the presentation of a special edition of a coffee table book entitled, “A Tribute to our Patron”, to PCA’s outgoing patron, Datuk Seri Victor Paul, for his invaluable contributions and services from 2011 to 2018.

Also present were guest of honour Norazlinah Arif, Assistant Minister of Health & People’s Well-Being representing the Chief Minister, Datuk Janet Chee, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Health and People’s Wellbeing, PCAKK President Rokiah Yaacob, Mayor Datuk Hj Nordin Siman, Dr Mohammad Namazie Ibrahim, President of the Malaysian Medical Association, KL General Hospital Director Dr Heric Corray and spouse, Gerard Tan, Deputy CEO of Sutera Harbour and Datin Mary Yong, Patron of Ibubapa Prihatin Thalasemia, Kudat.