DEPUTY Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has urged the private sector to take a more proactive stance in supporting public healthcare through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, especially to aid patients unable to afford treatment.
“Companies and individuals who are able should step forward to extend contributions to hospitals to assist patients in getting the necessary medical treatment,” he said, speaking at the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) today.
He was present to witness a RM2 million contribution from mini-market chain 99 Speedmart to the PPUMCare Fund, which supports underprivileged patients seeking treatment at UMMC.
“The contribution channelled today by 99 Speedmart to the Universiti Malaysia Medical Centre is very meaningful for those in need, especially the disabled and the less fortunate, to undergo medical treatment at the hospital,” Fadillah said.
“I hope such efforts will attract more… not just companies but also individuals who have surplus income to contribute to hospitals and university medical centres.”
He noted that contributions could come not only from corporate budgets but also as zakat (tithe), making them eligible for tax relief.
“Besides easing the people’s burden, companies are also eligible to apply for tax relief from the government because this contribution is recognised as part of CSR. So, it is not merely a tax payment, but also providing benefits to the community,” he added.
PPUMCare Fund chairperson Chew Yee Yean highlighted the ongoing strain on the hospital’s resources.
“UMMC treats over one million patients annually, with an average of 3,500 patients daily, and over 1,200 beds are constantly taken up by the patients,” said Chew, who also serves as the hospital’s deputy director (Professional).
She revealed that 30 per cent of patients fall into the B40 low-income group.
“In 2024, the PPUMCare Fund had to assist 1,969 patients, involving RM7.6 million, while the total aid we received was only RM3.2 million.
“As such, we are hoping to receive whatever form or amount of contribution from various parties, as they will help us in our efforts to continue to assist patients who are in need.”
She added that the funds would go towards supporting treatment across various departments, including surgery, orthopaedics, cardiology, respiratory, paediatrics and ophthalmology. - October 8, 2025
