Hospis Malaysia just had a major glow-up and it’s not just about the new look. It comes with a very strong message.

At the 10th Voices for Hospices Charity Gala Dinner themed “A Promise of Dignity, United in Care,” the organisation unveiled a refreshed brand identity and bold vision to become a Centre of Palliative Care Excellence, marking 34 years of championing compassion and dignity in healthcare.

Held at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, the gala brought together healthcare leaders, philanthropists, and advocates who share one VERY important mission: Making palliative care accessible to all Malaysians. The evening wasn’t just a celebration; it was a firm stance that dignity should NEVER be a Luxury.

Breaking the Stigma Around Palliative Care

Hospis Malaysia’s rebranding sends a clear message: palliative care isn’t only for the elderly or terminally ill, it’s for anyone navigating a serious illness, at any stage. It’s not about giving up, but about living well, even in hard times.

YBhg. Dato’ Kathleen Chew, Chairman of Hospis Malaysia, said:

“Palliative care is not about the end of life, it is about the dignity of life itself. As our nation ages, we at Hospis Malaysia are committed to ensuring that every Malaysian has access to compassionate care close to home, through our work within communities and by strengthening the capacity of healthcare professionals.”

She didn’t sugarcoat the facts either. By 2030, a quarter of a million Malaysians annually will require palliative care. And it is very urgent. With Malaysia becoming an ageing nation, ensuring access palliative care should be an utmost priority.

Care that Starts at Home

Hospis Malaysia has spent over three decades redefining what community care looks like. Every year, its multidisciplinary team of dedicated doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and therapists conducts over 11,000 home visits, supporting around 1,500 patients and their families. Furthermore, the organisation also trains nearly 1,000 healthcare professionals annually, working closely with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Higher Education to build a more compassionate future for Malaysian healthcare.

Dato’ Kathleen praised the government’s ongoing support, adding:

“We commend the government’s initiatives to strengthen the healthcare system and improve access to quality care for all Malaysians… With earlier referrals to palliative care in the community, many patients can be cared for comfortably at home, reducing hospital admissions and helping families manage care with confidence and compassion.”

Care that Touches Hearts

Guest of Honour Y.A.M. Tengku Datin Paduka Zatashah binti Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah shared a moving message about the role of compassion in healthcare:

“Palliative care should never be seen as a last resort, but as an essential part of living well until the end. We have one opportunity to ensure our loved ones are cared for with dignity, comfort, and peace, and Hospis Malaysia has consistently demonstrated that this is achievable.”

The emotional core of the evening came from Puan Norra Ismail, mother of the late Tijani Batrisyia, who spoke bravely about her journey:

“Watching my child face a serious illness was devastating. What sustained us was knowing Tijani could be cared for at home, surrounded by love and dignity. Hospis Malaysia made that possible… No one should have to walk this path alone.”

A Call for a Movement

The Voices for Hospices Gala Dinner, held every two years, is more than just a fancy night out. It’s the heartbeat of Hospis Malaysia’s fundraising efforts ensuring their care remains free for patients and families who need it most. Every ringgit raised goes toward expanding services, training healthcare workers, and pushing for palliative care to become a standard part of Malaysia’s healthcare system.

Hospis Malaysia’s evolution is a reminder that dignity, compassion, and community care never go out of style. Their promise? To make sure no one has to face serious illness alone and that every Malaysian, no matter their age or background, gets to live and leave with grace.