The Charis Hospice Charity Run 2025, themed ‘Happy Feet 2.0: Striding for Palliative Care’, will take place at Food Bayana, Bayan Lepas on April 19 at 7.30am.
More than just a run, the event seeks to unite people in compassion and hope while raising awareness and funds for free home-based palliative care services provided by Charis Hospice.
Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, the state executive councillor for Sports, Youth and Health who officiated the launch, emphasised the importance of palliative care in the health care system while encouraging the public to participate in the charity run.
“Charis Hospice has been a beacon of hope, providing free home-based palliative care to ease the burdens of patients and their families during one of the most challenging times of their lives.
“Today, as we launch this run, we are not just promoting a healthy lifestyle; we are standing together for compassion, solidarity and community support. Every step we take, every kilometer we complete, is a step towards improving the quality of life for those under palliative care.
“I urge everyone — individuals, families, corporations and community groups – to participate in this meaningful initiative.
“Whether you join as a runner, volunteer or donor, your involvement is a powerful statement of your commitment to care and kindness,” Gooi said.
Gooi also further reminded the public about cancer prevention.
Gooi highlighted recent data released by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad, which revealed that nearly 250,000 cancer cases were recorded in Malaysia from 2017 to 2023, with the mortality rate continuing to rise.
“The five most common cancers in Malaysia are breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, lymphoma and liver cancer.
“In 2023, cancer-related deaths made up 14% of total fatalities nationwide, making it the third leading cause of death,” Gooi added.
He urged the public to be proactive in health screenings, particularly those in the B40 groups who can schedule breast, cervical, colorectal and oral cancer screenings via the MySejahtera app.
Charis Hospice chairman Lee Khai revealed that since its establishment in 2004, the organisation has been committed to providing palliative care to those in need.
He noted that many people remain unaware of palliative care services, and most patients are referred to Charis Hospice only in their final week of life.
“This event is not just about fundraising; it’s also about raising awareness. We hope more people will learn about palliative care and seek support early on instead of only at the final stage,” he said.
Lee added that the charity run aims to raise RM200,000, with a goal of 1,000 participants. Currently, over 600 people have signed up.
The registration closes on March 19. Those interested can contact 011-12466757, email [email protected], or visit Charis Hospice Penang’s Facebook page for more details.
Also present were Charis Hospice board member Kew Chii Shiang, organising chairman of Charis Hospice Charity Run 2025 Mah Ting Keong, Charis Hospice founder and medical director Dr Oo Loo Chan, Charis Hospice founder and development executive Winx Lee, Charis Hospice development assistant Mah Xin Wei and volunteer May Wong.
Representatives from prominent sponsors – Food Bayana, Analog Devices, Plexus, and Ong & Manecksha – were also present.
Story by Lim Min Jun
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud