Foundation offers accommodation in Putrajaya to families accompanying loved ones seeking cancer treatment
IMAGINE the heart-wrenching situation of a loved one battling cancer and being unable to find an affordable place to stay to provide care and support.
For families accompanying their loved ones to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) at Putrajaya Hospital, this is a harsh reality.
However, Pertubuhan Amal Uncle Kentang Malaysia is offering a beacon of hope in the form of Rumah RM1.
The Pangsapuri Putra Harmoni lodgings offer patients and their families a comfortable place to stay during treatment.
“Rumah RM1 is just a branding for this initiative,” said social activist and philanthropist Kuan Chee Heng during the launch at the apartment complex in Presint 9, Putrajaya.
Kuan, who is better known as “Uncle Kentang”, said the foundation wanted to provide a space where families could be close to their loved ones without worrying about finances.
“This project is based on compassion and support,” he said.
Kuan (fourth from left) and Dr Mohd Anis in the living room of a Rumah RM1 unit. — LOW LAY PHON/The Star
Kuan recounted his experience of not having a place to stay when his father was receiving medical treatment.
“We didn’t have any money to rent a place. I know how hard it is,” he said.
Kuan said he used to hitch a ride on the back of a lorry to go to Hospital Lady Templer, which is now the Cheras Rehabilitation Hospital (HRC) in Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur.
“When I reached the hospital, my face was dirty and I had no place to shower,” he said, adding that there were many people travelling to the hospital who were in need of accommodation.
“I believe it can help cancer patients and their families who come from outstation.”
The effort has received strong support from the NCI.
Its director Dr Mohd Anis Haron said the Rumah RM1 project targeted non-Muslim caregivers and patients more.
“This helps reduce the burden of NCI. We see an increase in the number of cancer patients each year.
The fully furnished kitchen is equipped with refrigerator, washing machine and stove.
“Our bed occupancy rate reaches 66%, and sometimes it can go up to 90%.”
He said with the Rumah RM1 the patient no longer has to travel between NCI and where they lived every day.
“They can stay here during the treatment period.”
Rumah RM1 is fully equipped with a water heater, refrigerator, washing machine, free WiFi, television and a sofa.
The Rumah RM1 operates on a first-come, first-served basis and can accommodate up to seven people per house.
It is free of charge.
There is no limit on how long families can stay – the duration depends on treatment plan.
There are two facilities – PPAM Pudina Rumah RM1 for Muslim patients and their families, while Pangsapuri Putra Harmoni is for non-Muslims.
Those wanting to stay in the Rumah RM1, can call 03-8065 6666 (Uncle Kentang Call Centre) for more information.
