MAKNA Founder Mohd Farid Ariffin Laid To Rest
NILAI, Jan 15 (Bernama) -- The founder and president of the National Cancer Council (MAKNA), Datuk Mohd Farid Ariffin, was laid to rest at the Bukit Buak Cemetery in Labu Hilir here at about noon today.
About 200 people, comprising family members, MAKNA staff and close friends, were present to pay their last respects.
Mohd Farid passed away at 5.38 pm yesterday at a private hospital in Nilai. He was 84.
Earlier, his remains were brought to Masjid Kariah Labu Hilir in Kampung Labu Hilir for bathing and shrouding, followed by funeral prayers at about 10.30 am.
Meanwhile, MAKNA Services Department head Imelda Suhanti Ishak, 50, described Mohd Farid’s passing as a great loss to the council, citing his immense contributions and unwavering commitment, particularly in championing the welfare of cancer patients.
“He was a very humble individual and was well-liked by more than 200 MAKNA staff. He was deeply committed to his work, and everything he did was for the well-being of cancer patients. He also instilled in us the value of working not merely for a salary, but out of genuine concern for patients’ welfare.
“The last time I met him was recently, and the advice that stayed with me most was that whatever we do, we must always think about who it is for. He was a constant source of inspiration and an irreplaceable leader,” said Imelda Suhanti, who has served MAKNA for 23 years.
Imelda Suhanti said that one of the most distinctive programmes introduced by Mohd Farid was the MAKNA Continuous Education (MCE) Homestay, which allowed staff to live with cancer patients for three days and two nights to experience first-hand the challenges and hardships faced by them and their families.
Mohd Farid, a native of Kuala Nerang, Kedah, had served as Deputy Health Minister from 1989 to 1995. He is survived by his wife, Datin Siti Mariam Hussein, 83, two daughters, Farahida, 59, and Fararaina, 53, as well as seven grandchildren.
In 1994, he founded MAKNA with the aim of raising public awareness on cancer and providing comprehensive support to patients, particularly the underprivileged, encompassing financial, emotional, physical and educational assistance.
-- BERNAMA
