ASP Medical Group brought joy to 28 young cancer patients at Penang Hospital’s Paediatric Oncology Ward today in conjunction with Chinese New Year.
Led by ASP Medical Group chief executive officer Datuk Tommy Tan Meng Lee and president Dr Doreen Yeap Gim Ean, the initiative was part of the group’s corporate social responsibility (CSR). The team distributed red packets and goodies, offering encouragement and warmth to the children.
“We believe healthcare extends beyond medical treatment; it’s about providing care, support, and emotional strength, especially during festive seasons.
“We want these brave young fighters to understand that they are not fighting alone. We are fighting with them together, and we are honoured to spend time with them today,” Dr Yeap said.
Penang Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who attended the event, expressed gratitude to ASP Medical Group for bringing not only festive cheer but also a sense of community support.
During a press conference after the ward visit, Gooi highlighted ongoing hospital facility upgrades to accommodate the growing number of patients. Plans include the construction of a new specialist and ward building opposite Block A, as well as a women and children’s complex to enhance medical services and capacity.
However, Gooi urged the public to adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce dependency on medical resources.
“Even if we add 10,000 hospital beds, it won’t be enough if people lack health awareness. We must promote healthy lifestyles to reduce dependence on medical resources,” Gooi said.
Gooi also noted that Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad recently approved an expansion plan for the Emergency Department at Kepala Batas Hospital, which includes a RM5 million CT scan machine to improve diagnostic services.
Also present were Dr Maheshvar Balan (deputy director of Penang General Hospital), Dr Ang Ming Ping (paediatrician), Ridzwan Azmi (head of Public Relations Unit), Linda (public relations officer), Sister Noorazlina Mohd Noor (nurse), Sazrah Binti Shuib (matron), Irene Lim Bee Lian (senior manager of ASP Medical Group), Presana Ragunathan (senior manager of ASP Medical Group), Lok Li Ying (senior manager of ASP Medical Group), Khor Zijie (HR manager of ASP Medical Group) and Norkhairina Teoh (Human Resources supervisor of ASP Medical Group).
Story by Lim Min Jun
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud