Adenan sings to raise RM1.4 mil for kidney patients

Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Adenan Satem sang four songs last night and raised almost RM1.4 million for kidney patients and diabetics in this city.

More than 20 donors, comprising private companies, NGOs and individuals, came forth with the cash after hearing Adenan belt out three English evergreen songs and a Malay oldie.

With the D'Cipta band of the Sarawak Social Development and Urbanisation Ministry in attendance, Adenan sang 'Can't Help Falling in Love' (by Elvis Presley), 'The Young Ones' and 'Travelling Light' (Cliff Richard) and 'Putus Sudah Kasih Sayang (P. Ramlee) and captured the hearts of guests at the Chinese New Year gathering organised by the United Chinese Association.

Adenan's wife Puan Sri Jamilah Anu; Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud and his wife Toh Puan Ragad Kurdi Taib, and Local Government and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh also attended the event.

Earlier, in his address, the 72-year-old Adenan said he needed five more years at the helm of the state before retiring.

“Age and health factors do not allow me to lead Sarawak beyond that period,” he said.

He urged voters to give him the full mandate for another five years as chief minister to enable him to continue his tasks for the people and state.

Adenan said that since becoming the chief minister on Feb 28 last year he had implemented 50 policies and would introduce more if given the chance by the people.

He also said that the real wealth of Sarawak was its unity in diversity where the people lived together and respected one another.