‘Heart of Gold’ Charity Concert Raises RM270,000

Ir. Shahelmy (third from left), Joachim (third from right), and Liew (second from right) during the PCAKK Logo Lighting Ceremony. Also pictured are Lim (far left), Tan, and Dr Jaswant (far right).

9 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Palliative Care Association of Kota Kinabalu (PCAKK) successfully raised RM270,000 at its 26th Annual Charity Dinner and Concert, held on Friday evening at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).

Organising Chairperson Datuk Margaret Lim announced that the funds were contributed by the Sabah State Government, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and proceeds from the charity dinner itself.

“I am deeply touched by the overwhelming support we received,” said Lim in a statement on Saturday. “The generosity of our sponsors, donors and dinner guests ensures the sustainability of our palliative care services.”

Since its inception in 1995, PCAKK has provided compassionate care to more than 5,200 patients.

Lim, who also serves as PCAKK’s Management Adviser, extended heartfelt thanks to the Head of State, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima (Dr) Musa Haji Aman; the Sabah State Government; the Mayor of Kota Kinabalu, Dato’ Sri Dr Haji Sabin Samitah; and a host of notable guests, including former Assistant Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Edward Yong Oui Fah and Datin Mary Yong; former PCAKK patrons Datuk Edward Ong and Datuk Seri Victor Paul; as well as SICC, hotel partners, corporate bodies, media organisations, volunteers, and donors of lucky draw prizes.

Among the 1,500 guests present were three Sabah State Ministers, who officiated the lighting of the PCAKK logo to mark the start of the event. Representing the Governor was Deputy Chief Minister III and Minister of Works, Datuk Ir. Shahelmy Yahya. He was joined by Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, and Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Seri Christina Liew.

The night’s headline performance came from internationally renowned tribute artiste Rebecca O’Connor, whose dynamic portrayal of Tina Turner brought the house down.

Accompanied by a live band and dancers, she thrilled the crowd with powerful renditions of Turner’s iconic hits including Proud Mary and Simply the Best, culminating in a crowd-pleasing encore.

Additional entertainment included performances by saxophonist Zara Goh Flintoft, classical ensemble The String Trio, and emcee Rene Barrow, who also showcased his vocal talents.

In a standout moment of the evening, O’Connor stepped off the stage during her performance to greet guests, including Datuk Seri Christina Liew, who shared a warm exchange with the artiste and later joined other fans on the dance floor for photos.