Malaysia to open first hospital-linked paediatric palliative care centre
Malaysia is opening its first hospital-linked Paediatric Palliative Care Centre (PPCC), a dedicated sanctuary for children with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses. The centre, founded by paediatricians Dr. Lee Ai and Dr. Farah Khalid with support from the non-profit My Starfish Berhad, will provide holistic and free psychosocial and emotional care for children and their families.
The PPCC is envisioned as a place where children can still play, laugh and experience childhood despite serious illness. Parents will be offered respite, while siblings will receive emotional support. The focus will remain on comfort, dignity and quality of life, guided by the belief that every child matters.
Dr. Lee explained that families often lose sight of simple joys such as a child’s laughter or a moment of rest. She said that for parents burdened by endless hospital visits, medical procedures and fatigue, the centre will offer space to breathe and live well even in the midst of illness.
The PPCC will extend the work of the Paediatric Pain and Palliative Care Unit at University Malaya Medical Centre, which has cared for more than 400 children since 2018. Around 60 percent of those patients have passed away, with some receiving support for up to four years, underscoring the ongoing need for psychological and emotional care. Nursing staff from the hospital will be assigned to the centre, and secure access to medical records will ensure continuity of treatment.
With the support of Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya, a house has been secured at a subsidised rent to house the facility. At least RM1 million is still required to set up and equip the centre, of which RM280,000 has already been raised. Dr. Farah noted that the initiative has the potential to reshape the experience of families living with childhood illness and called on Malaysians to help ensure that sickness does not take away the essence of childhood. (Press Release)
Category: MJN enews
