Bintulu toddler Gonzalez Yiu still needs RM134,000 for life-saving second liver transplant in China
BINTULU (June 12): Bintulu toddler Gonzalez Yiu, who is battling Type II autoimmune hepatitis and end-stage liver disease, urgently needs an additional RM134,896.89 to undergo a second transplant in China.
His mother Viviana Thomas, 28, said the family has been desperately trying to raise RM231,930 in total for the life-saving surgery at Shanghai's Renji Hospital.
'As of June 11, we've managed to raise RM97,033.11,' she said when contacted today.
Viviana said she hopes the remaining amount could be raised soon as Gonzalez's second birthday will fall on July 7.
'We're not even planning a birthday celebration anymore; we just want him to stay alive,' she said, adding that Gonzalez has been fighting the illness since he was six months old.
She explained that apart from the cost of the surgery and treatment, they also need to purchase a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine worth RM6,930 to help Gonzalez before and after surgery.
'We initially hoped to borrow the machine from another patient, but it was already sold to someone else in need,' she explained.
Gonzalez is currently under close observation at the University of Malaya Medical Centre (PPUM) in Kuala Lumpur, while awaiting full funding and assistance from the Biliary Atresia Malaysia Association for documentation and ethical approval.
Donations can be channelled to Yayasan Nanyang Press (OCBC Bank account 701-120679-6) with the reference Gonzalez Yiu.
Those requiring tax exemption receipts can fill the online form and upload proof of payment via https://forms.gle/895dJk3KVp1bREho6.
In a previous report by Utusan Borneo on May 22, Viviana had said public donations were a last resort as the family had depleted its savings to cover medical needs, basic necessities, and travel costs.
In March last year, Gonzalez, the second of two children, underwent a liver transplant but suffered serious complications when the liver donated by his mother began to fail.
For the second transplant, Gonzalez's father Yiu Kuok Ling, 30, will donate part of his liver.
Viviana can be contacted on 010-7661816. end-stage liver disease Gonzalez Yiu lead Renji Hospital Viviana Thomas
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
a day ago
- The Star
The DRG: A silver bullet for rising medical costs or just one piece of the puzzle?
AS Malaysians grapple with rising healthcare costs and increasing insurance premiums, the government is exploring a new payment model aimed at curbing medical inflation, which is scheduled to be rolled out within the next few years. While the Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) system is being promoted as a potential solution to control escalating costs, its effectiveness in addressing the root causes of medical cost inflation remains uncertain. At the same time, many patients are still unclear about what DRG is, and how it might actually benefit them. In simple terms, the DRG system categorises hospital patients into groups based on diagnoses, procedures, and expected length of stay. Rather than paying hospitals for every service provided, which is also known as the traditional 'fee-for-service model', DRG assigns a fixed payment rate per patient group. This means that hospitals are reimbursed based on the type of care they provide the patient, not the volume of services rendered. The aim of this is to improve efficiency, achieve standardisation, and ultimately, achieve the main goal, which is to de-escalate rising medical costs. The DRG as envisioned by the government is a way to make healthcare more transparent, predictable, and fair for Malaysians. By standardising treatment costs based on diagnoses, patients will be able to know in advance the expected cost of care, helping them avoid the shock of an unexpected medical bill upon discharge. DRG is also a way to provide comparable pricing for similar treatments across different facilities, making it less likely for patients to be overcharged for the same procedure. Furthermore, by shifting away from a fee-for-service model, DRG encourages hospitals to provide care that is appropriate rather than excessive. It is hoped that this will bring down the incidences of unnecessary tests or admissions. As the DRG system brings consistency to healthcare pricing, patients may also benefit from improved insurance products with more predictable reimbursement structures. In short, the DRG system is intended to address medical costs in a way that directly benefits patients. — 123rf For a national-level DRG to be set up, hospitals must code each patient case, typically after the patient is discharged, using standardised systems. This coding will form the basis of billing and benchmarking. In Malaysia, the DRG system has already been in use. Teaching hospitals such as Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (HUKM) and Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (PPUM) have already implemented the DRG system to improve operational efficiency. In fact, HUKM has been using the DRG system for about 20 years to date, and PPUM, for three. The Health Ministry has also worked with DRG frameworks for the past 10 to 12 years. However, full-scale national implementation remains a work in progress. For the DRG system to function effectively at a national level, several prerequisites must be met. Firstly, a Malaysian DRG grouper, which is a system that classifies and assigns DRG codes, needs to be developed using comprehensive data from both public and private hospitals. Without a unified dataset, it is impossible to benchmark charges, track outcomes, and identify inefficiencies accurately. In various engagements with the Health Ministry and Finance Ministry, private hospitals have expressed eagerness to contribute data, and are waiting for a further response from the government. Equally important to the success of a national-level DRG system is accurate coding. If coding is incomplete or inaccurate, the system will fail to reflect actual performance, leading to unfair reimbursement and inefficiencies. This calls for enhanced training of medical officers and coders, which takes time and investment. After all, more important than having a DRG system in place is for it to be efficient. But is DRG the silver bullet to reduce healthcare costs? Comprehensive 'toolkit' vital This topic was a central theme across several panel discussions at the APHM (Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia) Conference and Exhibition 2025, which was held from June 9 to 11. Many of the experts speaking at the conference, from academicians to public health specialists and DRG experts, agreed that while the DRG system can benefit patients by providing greater transparency and predictability in billing, the system is not a standalone solution. Instead, coordinated effort across multiple fronts is required, rather than relying on any single solution. One important strategy to control healthcare costs is price transparency, which countries like France, Japan, Singapore, and the United States have employed in addressing cost inflation, not only in the healthcare sector but across various industries. This approach allows patients and payers to compare prices and make more informed choices, especially when purchasing medicines. In Malaysia, the recent enforcement of the Medicine Price Display Gazette under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking for Drug) Order 2025, effective from May 1 this year, has been adopted by private hospitals. In addition to medicine price display, more public education on the use of generic medicines by doctors and pharmacists is still needed to ensure price transparency measures truly help bring down healthcare costs. The Medicine Price Display Gazette under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering (Price Marking for Drug) Order 2025 was enforced on May 1. — AZMAN GHANI/The Star Another key approach is value- based care, which moves away from the quantity of services provided to patients to the actual health outcomes achieved. In addition, strategic purchasing, such as bulk buying of medicines and pooled procurement, helps reduce costs by eliminating inefficiencies. Private hospitals in Malaysia have long practised bulk buying and pooled procurement, and further efforts are being made to remove middlemen from the procurement process altogether. Social health insurance plays a critical role in protecting vulnerable groups through better risk pooling. In Malaysia, the Health Ministry recently announced the Medical and Health Insurance/Takaful Basic Product, which aims to ensure that all Malaysians, regardless of socioeconomic background, have access to health insurance. Broader system-wide reforms are essential as well. These include strengthening primary care (by making family doctor services stronger and more available), expanding digital health services (by using technology like health apps more often), and improving health literacy (by helping people better understand health information) to empower patients. Finally, incentives for preventive care, such as bonuses when insurance policyholders do not make any claims, and co-payment structures, should be encouraged. These incentives reward responsible insurance subscribers and help build funds when individuals are younger, so that their coverage is maintained in their older years. It is important to consider that beyond government and hospital efforts, patients themselves must also use healthcare responsibly to help contain costs over the long term. Together, these strategies will create a more robust and sustainable healthcare system that balances cost control with quality care. Ultimately, the success of the DRG system in Malaysia will depend on how well it is designed, implemented, and supported. Coding accuracy, quality data, and professional training are critical. If implemented poorly, the DRG system risks becoming just another bureaucratic layer, but if done right, it could be a vital lever in Malaysia's healthcare reform toolkit. It is important to remember that the DRG system is not a standalone solution. Rather, it should be part of a comprehensive toolkit of strategies to manage rising healthcare costs holistically. As Malaysia considers scaling the DRG system nationwide, policymakers must keep in mind that building a fair, efficient, and patient-centred healthcare system requires a combination of approaches. There is no single silver bullet. Datuk Dr Kuljit Singh is president of the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM) and Independent Director of the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC) Board. The views expressed here are solely the writer's own.
Borneo Post
20-06-2025
- Borneo Post
Bintulu toddler Gonzalez Yiu just short of RM50,000 for life-saving second liver transplant in China
Gonzalez and Viviana are seen at UMMC in Kuala Lumpur while waiting for sufficient funds for the critical liver transplant. SIBU (June 20): A fundraising campaign to enable Bintulu toddler Gonzalez Yiu to undergo a critical second liver transplant in China needs less than RM50,000 more to achieve its target of RM231,930. His mother Viviana Thomas said as of yesterday, the campaign had collected RM183,287.25 to support the surgery and treatment at Renji Hospital in Shanghai. Gonzalez is battling Type II autoimmune hepatitis and end-stage liver disease. Viviana appealed for help to raise the remaining RM48,642.75 for her son —who has been battling the illness since he was six months old — to receive the life-saving treatment. 'Every passing day is critical for Gonzalez. We truly appreciate every donation and prayer from the public,' she said when contacted today. She also shared the family's heartfelt gratitude for the support and compassion shown by the public throughout the campaign. The total amount includes a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine worth RM6,930 to help Gonzalez, who is one year and 11 months old, breathe steadily before and after the surgery in China. For now, Gonzalez remains under monitoring at the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) in Kuala Lumpur, while waiting for sufficient funds and assistance from the Biliary Atresia Malaysia Association (BAMA) to manage documentation and obtain Ethical Approval. Those wishing to help ease the family's burden can channel donations through Yayasan Nanyang Press (OCBC Bank 701-120679-6) with the reference Gonzalez Yiu. Donors who require tax exemption receipts can complete the online form and upload proof of payment via: On May 22, Viviana told Utusan Borneo the family was left with no choice but to appeal to the public for help as their savings had been exhausted on essential needs, treatments, and repeated hospital trips. The youngest of two siblings, Gonzalez underwent his first liver transplant in March last year, but suffered serious complications when the new liver —donated by his mother — began to fail. For the second transplant, Gonzalez's father Yiu Kuok Ling will donate part of his liver. For further information, contact Viviana on 010-7661816. Related report: Gonzalez Yiu lead liver transplant Renji Hospital Viviana Thomas
Malay Mail
13-06-2025
- Malay Mail
UM dental students provide care and support to former drug addicts — Nor Azlida Mohd Nor and Mia Izrina Izzuddin
JUNE 13 — A team of passionate students from the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya (UM), recently embarked on a meaningful community service initiative to support the overall well-being of former drug addicts currently undergoing rehabilitation. This outreach project was conducted as part of their undergraduate service-learning course. Former drug addicts are among the vulnerable groups who often face significant barriers in accessing healthcare, including oral health services. Prolong substance abuse has a detrimental impact on oral health due to a combination of biological, behavioural, and lifestyle factors. Studies show that long-term use of substances such as methamphetamines, heroin, and cocaine can reduce saliva flow, leading to dry mouth, which significantly increases the risk of dental caries, gum disease, and oral infections. According to the World Drug Report, an estimated 13.8 million individuals aged 15 to 16 years (5.6 per cent) are users of cannabis-type substances. In Malaysia, national data from 2010 indicated that approximately 2,138 adolescents, or 9.25 per cent, were involved in drug abuse, with the highest prevalence among youths aged 19–39 years, followed by those aged 13–18 years. Dentistry students from UM during a community outreach programme with residents of Rumah Sahabat in Hulu Langat, Selangor between April and May 2025. — Picture courtesy of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya In addition, former drug users often face poor access to healthcare due to stigma and discrimination, which discourages them from seeking help, including dental treatment. This lack of access further exacerbates their oral health conditions and presents challenges to their social reintegration. Poor oral health not only affects physical well-being but also has a profound impact on self-confidence, speech, nutrition, and overall quality of life. Recognising these challenges, UM dental students designed a community project focused on oral health promotion, basic dental screenings, and preventive care. According to the student leader Mia Izrina Izzuddin, 'This project aimed not only to improve oral health outcomes but also to empower individuals in recovery by treating them with respect and compassion'. The students visited the Drug Rehabilitation Centre (Rumah Sahabat) in Hulu Langat on four occasions (April-May 2025), beginning with a needs assessment, followed by the implementation of various oral health activities. The team conducted educational talks, designed fun activities, and created educational posters and videos. Muhamad Akif and Dayang mentioned 'we developed a training module and reminder materials for trainers, incorporating Islamic values related to oral care, to help sustain the program beyond the duration of our project'. In addition, dental and HIV screenings were conducted in collaboration with the Hulu Langat District Health Office. Reflecting on their experiences, students Nur Syafiqah, Shelby, and Tan Xuen Yue shared that the project inspired them to give back to marginalised communities. Muhammad Shafiq, Low Zhe Hsien and Jaskiran also said they gained valuable real-world experience by assisting lecturers during dental treatments and developed a deeper understanding of the various social determinants that influence individuals' well-being. Other group members, Wong Xin Ning, Rachel and Derrica Ladius highlighted the importance of negotiation skills and collaborative efforts with key stakeholders, including the National Anti-Drugs Agency, Persatuan Mencegah Dadah Malaysia (PEMADAM) and medical personnel from the Hulu Langat District Health Office for a meaningful intervention. The management of Rumah Sahabat Asyraf Amri and team expressed their gratitude for the initiative, noting that this was the first time many residents had received any form of oral care since entering the program. Several residents shared that they felt hopeful after interacting with the UM students, who treated them with kindness and respect. A short term project evaluation indicated positive improvement of oral health knowledge among the residents. This initiative highlights the essential role that students and academic institutions can play in bridging the gap between education and underserved communities. The experience also shaped students' professional development, cultivating empathy and social responsibility. * Further details of the program may be acquired from the Project Advisor, Assoc Prof Dr Nor Azlida Mohd Nor from the Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya. She may be reached at [email protected] ** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.
