KUCHING: A father’s selfless act has moved an entire community in Batu Kitang, as residents rallied together to support Lee Jun Kiong’s family, raising RM33,685 in just three days.
Lee, 56, who works as a mechanic and father of two, recently made the courageous decision to donate his kidney to his 12-year-old daughter, Li Xin Yie, who has suffered from kidney failure since early childhood.
He said, after years on medication, doctors informed the family that Xin Yie could no longer rely on drugs to manage her condition.
“Without dialysis or a transplant, her life would be at serious risk,” said Batu Kitang assemblyman, Lo Khere Chiang, at a press conference at Lo’s Batu Kitang Service Centre here yesterday.
The press conference was also attended by Lee’s wife, 47-year-old Nie Zhi Min, his daughters, 15-year-old Lee Pei Yie and Xin Yie together with other SUPP Batu Kitang leaders.
Coming from a financially challenged background, the family faced significant difficulties preparing for the operation and the long recovery period that would follow.
Lee’s wife, Zhi Min, is a full-time housewife, and the family depends solely on his income.
Touched by their story, Lo, who was first approached by the family to endorse supporting documents initiated a small fundraising effort.
What began as a modest gesture quickly grew into a major donation drive, attracting more support from the Batu Kitang constituency.
“In just three days, we saw 165 people come forward to help. The response was overwhelming.
“The total amount raised was RM33,685, and today we officially handed over the donation to Lee and his family,” he said.
Lee and his daughter are scheduled to undergo the transplant operation in Kuala Lumpur anytime next week, and the family is flying to Kuala Lumpur tomorrow.
Lee is expected to remain hospitalised for about a month, while Xin Yie will need to stay under medical observation for at least three months to ensure the transplant is successful.
The donation will help ease the family’s financial burden during this critical time, covering medical, transportation, and living expenses while Lee is unable to work.
The donors who are mostly from the Batu Kitang constituency, included many members of the SUPP and other concerned individuals from the local community, have all given Xin Yie’s a brighter future.
“This is what makes our community special, people coming together when one of us is in need. We are one big family here in Sarawak,” Lo said.
He also extended his heartfelt gratitude to the 165 donors and encouraged others who may still wish to contribute, can do so after this.
“Contributions can be made through SUPP Batu Kitang, via an account managed by Yvonne Goh, or directly to the Lee’s family, who reside at Arang Road. Further information and assistance are available through the N13 Batu Kitang Service Centre,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lee is also grateful for the assistance rendered to him and his family.
“I am forever grateful for all the assistance and help given to my family,” said Lee, who shared the same blood group as his daughter.
