Labu hilir: The founder and president of the National Cancer Council (MAKNA), Datuk Mohd Farid Ariffin, was laid to rest at the Bukit Buak Cemetery in Labu Hilir at about noon today. About 200 people, comprising family members, MAKNA staff, and close friends, were present to pay their last respects. Mohd Farid passed away at 5.38 pm yesterday at a private hospital in Nilai. He was 84.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, earlier, his remains were brought to Masjid Kariah Labu Hilir in Kampung Labu Hilir for bathing and shrouding, followed by funeral prayers at about 10.30 am. Meanwhile, MAKNA Services Department head Imelda Suhanti Ishak described Mohd Farid's passing as a significant loss to the council, citing his immense contributions and unwavering commitment, particularly in championing the welfare of cancer patients.

Imelda Suhanti highlighted Mohd Farid's dedication to his work, emphasizing his focus on the well-being of cancer patients and his encouragement to work out of genuine concern for patients' welfare. She recalled his advice on always considering who their work benefits and described him as an irreplaceable leader and a source of inspiration.

One of the distinctive programmes Mohd Farid introduced was the MAKNA Continuous Education (MCE) Homestay, which allowed staff to live with cancer patients to experience the challenges faced by them and their families. Mohd Farid, originally from Kuala Nerang, Kedah, had served as Deputy Health Minister from 1989 to 1995. He is survived by his wife, Datin Siti Mariam Hussein, two daughters, Farahida and Fararaina, as well as seven grandchildren.

In 1994, Mohd Farid founded MAKNA to raise public awareness on cancer and provide comprehensive support to patients, especially the underprivileged, offering financial, emotional, physical, and educational assistance.