KUCHING: A donation of 34 flat-screen televisions from the Roxy Hotel Chain is bringing comfort and joy to underprivileged families across Kuching through the efforts of local non-governmental organisation (NGO) Hope Place.
The televisions, previously used at several Roxy Hotel branches, were donated following refurbishment and upgrading works carried out by the hotel chain. Rather than disposing of the units, the company chose to give them a second life by supporting families facing financial hardship. According to Hope Place, the televisions remain in good working condition and are being redistributed to households in need.
Among the recipients was the family of widow Gladia, who is still grieving the loss of her husband to liver cancer earlier this year.
“We will not be celebrating Gawai or even Christmas this year. We truly appreciate Hope Place for giving us the television. Thank you for thinking of our family, especially during times like this,” said Claudia, Gladia’s eldest daughter.
For Gladia and her three children, the donation represents more than just a household appliance. As the family adjusts to life without its main breadwinner, the gesture has provided a source of comfort and encouragement during a challenging period.
Another recipient was two-year-old Liora, whose family has been struggling since her father, Lee Cotter, was diagnosed with bone tuberculosis. Her mother, Elizabeth anak Jihi, now dedicates most of her time to caring for him, placing significant financial and emotional strain on the household.
Hope Place volunteers recently installed one of the televisions in the family’s modest home, bringing a rare moment of happiness to the young child. The NGO noted that while such donations may appear simple, they can help improve the quality of life of vulnerable families by providing access to information, education and entertainment.
“At Roxy Hotels, we believe true success is never measured solely by growth, but by the positive impact we create within our community,” said Roxy Hotel Chain Managing Director Lee Chin Teck.
“Donating these televisions reflects our commitment to giving back, and we hope it encourages others to do the same,” he added.
Lee also highlighted the environmental benefits of the initiative, noting that extending the lifespan of usable items helps reduce unnecessary waste while supporting community welfare.
Hope Place plans to continue distributing the remaining televisions to deserving families throughout Sarawak. Several units have also been made available through the NGO’s Kedai Bajet at affordable prices, with proceeds channelled towards its ongoing assistance programmes, including support for low-income households, the elderly and individuals facing medical or financial difficulties.
The initiative reflects the growing role of corporate-community partnerships in supporting vulnerable groups while promoting sustainable practices through the reuse of functional household items.
