Kota Kinabalu: A recent effort through held several community activities managed to raise money for the family of Dulita Tunggab, a grandmother who is the sole provider for her two grandchildren aged 13 and 7.
It was organized during the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Happy Place Restaurant in Kolombong, where members of the public came together to support Dulita and the two children from Kg. Talungan, Telipok.
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Those who contributed to the event included Fiona.FacePainting, @Mirror SanctuaryKK, the Sacred Heart Christmas carollers, Jackie Jeffry, The Lift Media, TV Sabah and others.
Dulita’s story appeared in the Daily Express on Oct 21. Her second granddaughter, Salvirra Sius (11), a special needs child is in dire need of proper medical care.
She was referred to Bukit Harapan, thanks to the intervention of the Malaysian Red Crescent Society.
While Salvirra is now safe, Dulita still faces hardship as she cares for her two other grandchildren in the village. Organizers said the funds raised were meant only to support the family’s daily needs.
The current challenge is that the young children still need help for their daily livelihood. Cindy Sius, the eldest, is 13 and now in Form 1 at SMK Tun Fuad Stephen Kiulu, while Elvera Sius, the youngest, is 7 and in Year 1 at SK Talungan, Telipok.
According to Mary Ganam, the village head of Kg. Talungan, the family is in dire need of a proper house, as their current home is in a dilapidated condition.
With their parents absent, Dulita has become the sole caregiver for the two young children. Donations for Dulita’s family are still welcome. Members of the public can contribute directly to Dulita binti Tunggab at Bank Simpanan Nasional Bhd, account number 12102-41-00005021-6.
Salvirra’s struggle began when she became very ill at the age of six in 2020, before starting Year 1. An untreated fever caused brain damage, leaving her bedridden without proper medical care. Her condition was later discovered by volunteers and NGOs.
The NGOs involved at that time were WeCare Movement, Malaysian Red Crescent Society, and the Land Rover Club. They had originally focused on healthcare projects but turned their attention to Salvirra’s wellbeing after learning of her case.
Meanwhile, Happy Place is also supporting Queen Elizabeth Hospital by organizing a blood donation campaign and encouraging members of the public to take part.
