Story by Amanda Khong
Pix by Shum Jian-Wei
THE “Skip for Fun and Fund” event on Sept 27 at Penang Times Square was a huge success, with some RM201,000 raised.
This far exceeded the RM150,000 target of the organisers, Penang Adventist Hospital (PAH) and Mended Hearts Penang (PAH support group for heart patients).
It also marked the very first time, a “rope skipping for the heart” fundraising event was held in Malaysia.
This charity event was to increase awareness for lifestyle change to prevent disability and deaths caused by heart disease and stroke.
At the same time, it was also to raise funds for the poor to receive appropriate cardiac treatment and surgery at Penang Adventist Hospital.
Bukit Bendera MP Zairil Khir Johari, who was at the event, said “I feel truly happy to be part of this momentous event to help the poor especially for those needing heart treatment. I would also like to encourage the community to live a healthy lifestyle and engage in more regular physical activities.”
Heart disease accounted for 20.1% of deaths in Malaysia in 2014.
Research has shown that death or disability caused by heart disease and stroke is almost fully preventable through increasing daily intake of fruits and vegetables as well as a practice of healthy lifestyle.
Rope skipping is being proclaimed as one of the best exercises for cardiovascular and muscle endurance training.
It does not only benefit your heart but your bones, brain, balance and coordination as well.
All proceeds from the event will be channelled to the Penang Adventist Hospital Patient Heart Fund to provide grants or partial financial assistance to the qualified poor and needy heart disease patients for heart surgery and medical expenses regardless of race or religion.
For more information on how to contribute to this fund, contact their Community Development Department at 04-2227606/7644 or email [email protected]