By Anne Das
Since its establishment in 2010, Make-A-Wish Malaysia has granted more than 1,300 wishes to children with critical illnesses nationwide. Part of an international organisation that has fulfilled over 650,000 wishes, its mission continues to reach families across Malaysia, including those in Perak.
Last month, 20 children at Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun in Ipoh had their wishes granted during a celebration organised by Make-A-Wish Malaysia with the support of Poh Kong.
The October 16 event marked the successful completion of Poh Kong’s Gift of Joy campaign, which fulfilled its commitment to grant 50 wishes to children beyond Selangor.
Working alongside hospitals and volunteers, Make-A-Wish Malaysia creates memorable experiences for children aged three to 17 with qualifying critical illnesses. These wishes offer encouragement and happiness during difficult medical journeys. Children need not be terminally ill to qualify.
Among the October recipients were 15-year-old Uwaida, who wished for art supplies. Diagnosed with fibromatosis, she has undergone 52 chemotherapy sessions but continues to pursue her love of art.
Receiving acrylic paints, watercolours, markers and art journals was an exciting moment. “Now I can turn my imagination into beautiful things that I can call my own,” she exclaimed. Her mother was equally moved. “As a mother, there is nothing more precious than seeing my daughter being able to do what she loves.”
Elsewhere in Perak, three other children experienced their own special moments in recent months.
Eight-year-old Jia Qian from Kampar, who is undergoing chemotherapy for medulloblastoma, a form of brain cancer, wished for a Barbie doll and accessories. Her reason was wonderfully innocent. She wanted to host a tea party for her dolls.
Make-A-Wish Malaysia turned that idea into a celebration at the Grand Hotel in Kampar, complete with presents and family time.
Jia Qian even prepared drawings and a song to thank the volunteers.
In Gopeng, 13-year-old Bah Alfianzi from the Orang Asli Semai community had a different wish. Living with haemophilia A and complications affecting his knee, he has required weekly treatment for 11 years.
He wanted new clothes and soldier toys. Asked why he wanted the clothes; his answer was priceless. “Saya mahu nampak handsome!” (I want to look handsome!)
His wish came true with new outfits, shoes, sunglasses, a backpack and his favourite toys. A family outing to KFC in Gopeng made the occasion even more memorable.
For eight-year-old Dheeran in Ipoh, who has spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, his wish brought practical relief. His old stroller had become uncomfortable, making hospital visits increasingly challenging for his family.
With a specially designed Joyride CP stroller donated by Neolee Rehab Sdn Bhd, Dheeran can travel more comfortably. Seeing Dheeran smile as he settled into his new stroller brought immense joy to his mother and grandmother.
“When a wish comes true, it uplifts the child and everyone who shares in that moment. A wish renews hope and builds resilience and courage,” said Irene Tan, Chief Executive Officer of Make-A-Wish Malaysia.
With referrals increasing across northern Malaysia, the organisation is establishing a dedicated Northern Region WishMakers team to develop local partnerships, attract volunteers and raise funds.
“We invite the Ipoh community to join us in bringing joy back into the lives of local families affected by critical illness,” Irene said.
Perak residents, businesses and community organisations can contribute through donations, sponsorships, fundraising initiatives or volunteering.
There are children across Perak whose wishes are still waiting to be fulfilled. With greater community participation, more families could soon have something wonderful to celebrate.
Want to Help Make More Wishes Come True? Here’s How
❤️ Volunteer or support wish-granting activities.
🤝 Businesses can contribute through sponsorships and fundraising.
🌐 www.makeawish.org.my 📞 03-2738 9939
📧 info@makeawish.org.my 📱 Facebook: Make-A-Wish Malaysia
