KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- The Orchid Run & Ride 2024, held at the Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) today, successfully raised RM500,000 to support three non-profit organisations, dedicated to raising awareness, providing assistance, and offering relief and care to cancer patients.
Puan Sri Jemilia Md Jelas, president of the Association of Wives and Women Staff of Petronas (PETRONITA), said that the three beneficiaries are the National Cancer Council (MAKNA), the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), and the Breast Cancer Welfare Association Malaysia (BCWA).
She noted that, since its inception in 2015, the event has raised over RM2 million for healthcare institutions, systems, and medical research, as part of its charitable initiatives.
Jemilia also highlighted that the event attracted more than 8,000 participants, including Petronas employees, their families, and members of the public, who engaged in various categories, such as a five-kilometre fun run, a 12-kilometre run, and a 12-kilometre ride. A special half marathon (21 kilometres) category was introduced, in celebration of Petronas’ 50th anniversary.
“We are grateful and humbled by the overwhelming response and support for Orchid Run & Ride 2024. This event not only encourages everyone to adopt a healthy lifestyle, but also provides a platform for the local community to participate in, and contribute to a charitable cause,” she told Bernama.
The event, supported by Bank Simpanan Nasional, Cafe Mesra, Setel, and Petronas Shop, featured a variety of activity booths and performances, including a captivating show by local artist, De Fam, along with special appearances by Malaysian shuttlers, Kong Zhou Suin and Kang Khai Xing.
Jemilia noted that the Orchid Run & Ride events, themed ‘Continuing a Legacy Together for Our Future,’ were also held in Johor and Sarawak, in celebration of Petronas’ 50th anniversary, collectively raising over RM200,000 for healthcare organisations.
Meanwhile, NCSM president, Datuk Dr Saunthari Somasundaram, expressed gratitude to PETRONITA for the support, which enables the NCSM to provide integrated home-to-hospital care. This includes facilitating over 100 hospital shuttle trips weekly and offering essential financial aid to 100 families with underprivileged children battling cancer.
“This contribution will significantly benefit those fighting cancer,” she said.
MAKNA deputy general manager, Vemanna Appannah, conveyed her appreciation for the opportunity to unite people in alleviating the financial burdens and providing care and support to cancer patients.
“Not only do the high medical expenses and procedures strain cancer patients and their families, but the emotional distress they endure also adds to the immense challenges they face each day,” she added.
Puan Sri Datuk Akmal Abdul Salam, patron of the BCWA, emphasised that the association aims to educate and support more Malaysian women in early detection, and in maintaining an optimal quality of life post-breast cancer.
-- BERNAMA
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