VETERAN journalist Roy Goh became the 147th recipient of the Tabung Kasih@Hawana fund today, as Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil visited him at his home in Penampang. The visit took place as part of Fahmi’s official duties during his trip to Sabah ahead of the Malaysia Day celebrations next Monday.
Goh, 54, has faced mobility challenges since suffering a stroke in mid-2018, which has limited his ability to contribute as a part-time writer and stringer.
“I still see his fighting spirit and determination. Although he’s a bit frail, he continues to contribute as a writer. I was told his news organisation still asks him for reports occasionally, and I hope other media organisations will also take advantage of his wealth of experience,” Fahmi said after spending an hour with Goh at his home.
Fahmi added, "Journalism is not just a career, it’s in your blood. Even when someone is frail or has retired, it remains close to their heart."
Also present during the visit were Entrepreneurship and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick (MP for Penampang), Deputy Secretary-General of the Communications Ministry Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin, and Bernama’s Deputy Editor-in-Chief Nasriah Darus.
Goh’s journalism career began in 1993 as an editor for the now-defunct Borneo Mail. He went on to work as a correspondent for The Sun in 2001 before joining the Borneo Post. He later spent 14 years with the New Straits Times, finishing his career as an editor at its Kuala Lumpur headquarters.
Since his stroke, Goh has been left with limited mobility in his right hand and leg and continues to undergo regular treatment. His home was also affected by recent flooding in the state.
The Tabung Kasih@Hawana fund, established by the Communications Ministry through Bernama, was created to support active and retired media practitioners facing health or financial challenges. Launched during the 2023 National Journalists’ Day in Ipoh, Perak, the fund has allocated RM2 million and has provided aid to 147 individuals since its inception.— September 14, 2024.
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