This Grandma Is Joining A 160KM Race To Raise Funds For Malaysian Women With HIV

The 50-year-old decided to join forces with MAF after witnessing first-hand the hardships and difficulties encountered by many single mothers living with HIV. 

"With the opportunity given to me by MAF, I hope to reach out to as many women living with HIV to succeed in life despite the pressure and depression faced by them as a result of stigma from the community around them," Kak Rina said.

In 2014, Kak Rina started off raising funds together with her husband to support the first palliative care centre for people living with HIV in Kelantan. Since then, the 50-year-old believes she has found her calling in AIDS activism. 

"I want to inspire women out there that nothing is impossible, and you are never too old to chase your dreams. With courage, determination, and confidence, we can succeed in whatever goal we set out to achieve," Kak Rina said. 

A fundraising effort by MAF, the 'Triple-A Challenge' will see Kak Rina, joined by MAF Red Ribbon Youth Ambassador Jeff Lau, participating in the four-day long Ultra ASIA Race set in Vietnam on 25 to 28 March.

The 'Triple-A Challenge' was launched in support of MAF's new MyLady Assistance Scheme.

MAF revealed that the scheme, tailored for Malaysian women affected by HIV, is to equip them with the knowledge and skill sets necessary to start small-scale businesses. The scheme will also refer these women to suitable jobs through their peer support programme.

All proceeds from the campaign, which will go towards the MyLady Assistance Scheme, will be used to expand treatment, care, and support services for women living with HIV. 

Moreover, donations above RM100 will be entitled to receive tax exemption receipts from MAF.