Social activist hopes more people will come forward to pledge support
PROMINENT social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye hopes to donate more to charity in 2024 with proceeds from sales of his biography.
Lee, who visited Selangor Cheshire Home where he presented RM10,000 to its president Datin Paduka Khatijah Sulaiman, said many more organisations were in need of aid.
The home is the fourth non-governmental organisation to benefit from proceeds of the book launched in June 2022.
Located in Batu Caves, Selangor, the home established in 1963 provides residential care for those who are permanently disabled and without any means of resources or income.
“I picked Selangor Cheshire Home because they are doing good work for the disabled community and the home is very well run,” said Lee.
“Their mission to create opportunities for persons with disabilities with their six month-long economic empowerment course helps individuals by preparing them for the workforce.
“Social interaction classes, physical and emotional as well as on-the-job training help give them real opportunities to have some degree of independence,” he added.
Lee said the home required RM80,000 every month to maintain operations.
During the launch of his biography titled Call Lee Lam Thye!: Recalling a Lifetime of Service, Lee made a pledge to donate net proceeds from the sale of his book to charity.
“I have always believed in contributing to worthy causes – they are close to my heart.
“I hope my contribution will encourage others to also pledge support for charities that are currently facing financial problems,” he said.
Lee, 77, began public service at the age of 23. Since leaving politics, he has been actively involved in various social and community causes, focusing on safety, health and welfare issues.
In July he donated RM90,000, divided equally between Kasih Hospice Foundation, Malaysian Association for the Blind and Pure Life Society.
This latest RM10,000 to Selangor Cheshire Home brings the total donated to RM100,000.
“I intend to continue donating profits from sales of the book to charity.
“Many NGOs have approached me for assistance and I will identify more.”
Lee’s biography has sold almost 6,000 copies.
Those who wish to buy the book can email lamthyelee@yahoo.com