NSTP photo editor with cancer receives aid under Tabung Kasih@Hawana
The aid was presented by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil when he visited Ikhwan at Putrajaya Hospital today.
Ikhwan, 50, is undergoing treatment at the hospital following his diagnosis in May.
He has served with NSTP for 29 years.
After the visit, Fahmi said the aid was part of the government's efforts to support media practitioners facing difficult circumstances.
"Today, we visited Ikhwan to deliver a small contribution under the Tabung Kasih@Hawana initiative.
"We hope the money and basic necessities will bring him some comfort and encouragement during this challenging time."
Present were Media Prima News and Current Affairs group managing editor Jasbant Singh, Berita Harian group editor Zulkifli Jalil, Bernama chief executive officer Datin Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, as well as representatives from Media Prima.
Fahmi thanked Media Prima for its continued concern for the wellbeing of its staff.
He said his ministry, together with Bernama, would continue to monitor Ikhwan's condition to determine whether further assistance would be needed.
"His wife is no longer working and we have taken note of several matters.
"There is a 16-year age gap between their two children and the eldest is helping to care for the youngest."
On the aid programme, Fahmi said 405 media practitioners have benefited from the initiative since its launch in 2023.
"We hope that when we celebrate Hawana (National Journalists Day) this Saturday, on June 14, we will not only be able to extend support to more individuals, but also review the needs of previous recipients and provide additional aid if necessary."
Jasbant thanked the ministry and Bernama for the assistance.
"This reflects the minister's deep concern for the welfare of members of the journalism community in our country.
"The aid given is certainly meaningful to Ikhwan's family and will help ease their burden as they face this difficult time.
"I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the hospital for the high-quality care provided, which has proven effective, as Ikhwan is gradually recovering."
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