Cyclists help raise funds for Sabah's 1st children's hospice
Published on: Wed, Jul 30, 2025
By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: At the Sepeda Amal Borneo 2025 flagging-off ceremony. Kota Kinabalu: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), in collaboration with the Malaysian Association of Paediatric Palliative Care (MAPPAC), officially launched the Sepeda Amal Borneo 2025 (SAB2025) charity cycling event in Sandakan. The six-day ride aimed to raise vital funds for Sabah's first children's palliative care centre, the Malaysian Children's Hospice (MCH Kota Kinabalu). Dubbed the 'Sabah Everest', the ride spans a challenging 600km route from Sandakan to Kota Kinabalu, passing through Sungai Sapi, Paitan, Kota Marudu, Ranau and Tambunnan. The event runs from July 27 to Aug 1, with 17 cyclists participating, 14 from Malaysia, and one each from Singapore, the United States, and Macau. It was officiated by Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong Shir Yee, who was represented by District Medical Officer Dr Azwan Izat Rafaeh. The flagging-off ceremony was officiated by her political secretary, Teo Chee Kim, on her behalf. The launching ceremony, held at Livingston Hotel, Sandakan, began with opening remarks by Dr Timothy Cheng, founder of Sepeda Amal Borneo, followed by an introduction to paediatric palliative care by Dr Ng Su Fang, vice president of MAPPAC. 'This ride is more than a physical challenge, it is a journey of compassion and hope for children facing life-limiting illnesses,' said Dr Timothy Cheng, who also serves as chairperson of SAB2025 and MMA Schomos representative. The upcoming Malaysian Children's Hospice in Kota Kinabalu will offer holistic, home-based care for children with complex medical conditions. Services would include home visits, medical equipment loans, and psychosocial support for families navigating difficult circumstances. 'Through SAB2025, we aim to expand public awareness and strengthen the long-term development of paediatric palliative care. This centre will bring vital support and comfort to families across East Malaysia,' said Dr Ng Su Fang. Every year, thousands of children in Malaysia are diagnosed with rare diseases, cancer, or congenital disorders. Their families face heavy medical burdens, lack of long-term care services, emotional support, and community resources. Despite the growing need, paediatric palliative care in Malaysia remains underdeveloped, especially in Sabah, where no children's hospice currently exists. Many children spend their final days in hospitals rather than at home, missing out on the comfort of familiar surroundings and family togetherness. Currently, Malaysia has only 13 hospitals offering paediatric palliative care services and just three community-based children's hospices located in Kuala Lumpur, Klang, and Sibu. The SAB2025 event would conclude with a charity dinner on August 1 in Kota Kinabalu, featuring live performances and testimonies from families who have benefited from palliative care. All proceeds will go toward expanding services at MCH Kota Kinabalu. To donate or learn more, visit: sab.mma.org.my. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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