Special Movie Outing Makes Deepavali More Meaningful For 29 Underprivileged Children

IPOH, Nov 13 (Bernama) -- Deepavali became more meaningful for 29 underprivileged children from two local welfare homes here when they were treated to a special cinema outing by Perak Community Specialist Hospital (PCSH) today.

Organised in collaboration with the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Perak Branch and BTS R Partners Zurich, the hospital's first Deepavali Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) movie programme themed "Spreading Joy and Light Through Sharing and Caring" took place at GSC Play, AEON BIG Falim here.

PCSH chief executive officer Nicholas Chan said the initiative reflected the not-for-profit community hospital's commitment to extending meaningful care and festive cheer beyond providing medical treatment.

"Deepavali reminds us that the joy of celebration becomes even more meaningful when it is shared with others. For these children, a simple outing to the cinema can be an exciting experience. 

"We hope this occasion brings them happiness, creates wonderful memories and reminds them that they are valued and cared for by the community," he said in a statement.

The outing brought together 18 children from Rainbow Children's Home and 11 children from The Salvation Army Ipoh Children's Home, accompanied by three caretakers, who enjoyed a screening of the animated film "The Cat in the Hat" along with snacks, refreshments and goodie bags.

Also present at the event were PCSH Board of Directors representatives K.A. Silvanathan and Tham Chee Phing, Board of Visitors representative Shanker Retinam, as well as representatives from BTS R Partners Zurich and MMA Perak Branch chairman Dr Monesh Pillai.

Chan added that the hospital hoped the programme would inspire more organisations and individuals to embrace the spirit of giving and support the wellbeing of less fortunate children throughout the year.

"Sometimes, making a difference does not require grand gestures; even a small act of kindness can bring happiness to someone else's life. We hope to see more opportunities for the community to come together and share this spirit of caring," he said.

Beyond festive CSR initiatives, PCSH continues to assist children from B40 and M40 families as well as Malaysian citizens of all ages facing financial challenges with medical treatment costs through the PCSH Welfare Fund, subject to eligibility assessment and approval.

Guided by its philosophy, “From the Community, For the Community, With the Community,” PCSH remains committed to its mission of providing affordable quality healthcare while fostering a more caring and inclusive society. 

-- BERNAMA