The Papua New Guinea Tamil Sanggam Association (PNGTS) has donated 10 wheelchairs and essential supplies valued at K30,000 to the Children’s Cancer Ward at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH).

The donation drive, held during a community outreach event, coincided with Pinktober—a global monthly campaign dedicated to raising cancer awareness. The initiative was generously supported by corporate sponsors LJ Hooker and Niupower, providing much-needed comfort items for both young patients and their guardians.

PNGTS Secretary J. Padmanabhan emphasized that community service remains central to the association’s core mission, alongside promoting Tamil culture and fostering community unity.

“Our primary motive is to give back to Papua New Guinea. We have received so much from this country, and it is our responsibility to reciprocate,” Mr. Padmanabhan said.

PMGH Director of Medical Services, Dr. Kone Sobi, expressed deep gratitude to PNGTS, highlighting the association's consistent support for the hospital since 2018.

“While items like wheelchairs may seem basic, they play a critical role in meeting the daily mobility needs of our patients as they undergo medical treatment,” Dr. Sobi noted. “On behalf of the PMGH Board, management, and staff, I thank the Tamil Sanggam and its sponsors, LJ Hooker and Niupower, for their ongoing support. We look forward to continued collaboration.”

LJ Hooker Chairman Karan Rana said the company was humbled and honored to support families in need and contribute to a healthier society. In a further show of support, Mr. Rana announced that LJ Hooker will donate K25,000 through PNGTS toward this year’s Christmas celebrations for the Children’s Cancer Ward.

This donation adds to PNGTS’s growing track record of health-focused philanthropy. In 2024, the association hosted a medical camp in Papa Village that treated nearly 400 people and provided prescription glasses to over 100 residents. PNGTS also organizes annual blood donation drives, which have previously earned official recognition from PMGH.

Closing the event, PNGTS Vice President Dr. Suresh Babu thanked the hospital’s medical team, sponsors, and volunteers, paying special tribute to the patience and compassion exhibited daily by healthcare workers.

PNGTS reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its community service portfolio at PMGH and across other civic sectors nationwide.