By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 19: The Sarawak government has allocated RM2.25 million over the next three years to support the staffing and operations of Teratak Kasih Tok Nan (TKTN), a care centre for people living with HIV (PLHIV), with plans to expand the initiative to Miri and Bintulu.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said TKTN shows that care is not just about medicine—it is about humanity, acceptance, and trust.
“In recognition of this important work, I am pleased to announce that the Sarawak government will allocate RM2.25 million over the next three years to support the staffing and operations of Teratak Kasih Tok Nan.
“I am also heartened to learn that the centre is poised for expansion—from Kuching to Miri, and soon, to Bintulu—ensuring that more lives across Sarawak will be touched by its care and compassion,” he said in a speech text read by Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah during the Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) Kuching Gala Night 2025 held at Hilton Hotel here earlier tonight.
The Premier also paid tribute to MAF Borneo patron Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Jamilah Anu for her leadership and commitment, whose early support helped establish the first TKTN centre in 2016, in continuing the legacy of the late Pehin Sri Adenan Satem, fondly known as Tok Nan.
“Through Teratak Kasih Tok Nan, you have helped create not merely a facility, but a sanctuary—a place of safety, dignity, and renewed hope for those who need it most.
“Your commitment to serving the underprivileged and amplifying the voices of the vulnerable has left a deep and lasting mark on Sarawak,” he added.
Abang Johari emphasised that Sarawak takes the issue of HIV and AIDS seriously, and that the increasing number of new cases remains a concern.
“There is no room for complacency,” he said, noting that Sarawak is proud to be part of the national effort which ensures free first-line HIV treatment for all who need it.
He also highlighted Sarawak’s support for the Differentiated HIV Services for Key Populations (DHSKP), a collaboration between the Ministry of Health (MOH) and its partners, saying that the programme reflects the realities of Sarawak, where geography, diversity and vulnerability require localised and responsive solutions.
He commended the efforts of MAF Sarawak, especially its collaborative model with the government and private sector partners such as Sunway Group and Yayasan PETRONAS to expand DHSKP services.
The Sarawak government’s RM2.25 million contribution brought the total funds raised to RM3.5 million at the MAF Kuching Gala Night 2025.
These funds will go directly towards sustaining and expanding the TKTN safehouse and outreach model—first established in Kuching, later replicated in Miri, and now set to reach Bintulu in the coming year.
Other donors of the night included Yayasan TM, PETRONAS LNG, Pekat Group, Affin Bank, Bintulu Port, TAS Offshore, Berjaya Corporation, Timberland Medical Centre, and Ibraco Berhad. — DayakDaily
