Gombak: Former Harian Metro editor Pahmi Mat Ali, 60, received an early Aidilfitri cheer today when Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching visited him to present a contribution from Tabung Kasih@HAWANA. The contribution, presented at his home in Gombak Setia here, aims to help ease the veteran media practitioner's burden ahead of the festive season.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pahmi, who served in the media industry for 23 years from 1997 to 2020, is currently facing health challenges due to diabetes, glaucoma, cataracts, and high blood pressure. He expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am touched that there are still people who remember and appreciate my contributions, even though I am no longer in the field."

Pahmi reminisced about the times when colleagues would collect donations for those facing difficulties, highlighting the significance of the current government initiative. He noted, "Now, with this initiative, the government is also helping those in need, showing that our welfare is still being looked after."

The event was graced by the presence of Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin and Bernama editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj. Pahmi, a father of four, emphasized the importance of continuing initiatives like Tabung Kasih@HAWANA to support journalists and former journalists in need.

He also conveyed his appreciation to the MADANI government and the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), which manages the initiative, for their ongoing efforts to assist less fortunate media practitioners. Since its introduction in April 2023, Tabung Kasih@HAWANA has benefited 669 media practitioners nationwide, with nearly RM2 million disbursed.