KOTA KINABALU: The state-initiated Wuhan Fund has received a RM40,000 boost from a local philanthropist today, in support of Chinese citizens afflicted with the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
Excelrun Sdn Bhd managing director Tan TK handed over his contribution to Deputy Chief Minister-cum-Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew in a courtesy call, yesterday.
In 2012, the company received the Anugerah Sumbangan Ikhlas accolade from the state government in recognition of Tan's generous contributions to schools, voluntary welfare organisations and victims of natural disasters, among other beneficiaries.
"Let's do something about it. I want to help after reading the news about the fund-raising efforts for those suffering from the viral infection in Wuhan," said Tan, who is also the developer of Lintas Plaza and Plaza Station.
Early this week, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal said a target of RM1 million was set for the Wuhan Fund, adding the state government was doing its part to help the Chinese nationals who had contributed so much to the state's tourism.
Sabah’s Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry has formed a special committee in collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the state to raise the funds for Wuhan.
Liew, who co-chaired the special committee, expressed her appreciation to Tan for his magnanimous gesture.
"We have received overwhelming response from the business community, tourism industry players, NGOs, and private individuals throughout Sabah. We thank all of them for their generosity," she said.
The special committee is organising "China, We Care" Charity Dinner, which is to be held at the Sabah Hakka Hall here, on Feb 17.