BEFRIENDERS Penang was hailed by its patron, Tan Lean Kee, for its unwavering commitment to providing confidential emotional support that is not only admirable but profoundly necessary in today’s society.
Tan, who is also the wife of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, described the organisation’s volunteers as its backbone.
Speaking at the association’s 49th Annual General Meeting at Hompton by the Beach Penang today, she said she was deeply moved by the dedication of its volunteers and supporters. Also present were state Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, Befrienders Penang chairman Saras Pillay and state Welfare Department deputy director Chitarthany Rajalingam.
“My heartfelt gratitude goes to all our volunteers who give their time and energy selflessly. Your quiet strength, patience and empathy are the foundation of our organisation. I am confident that our mission will continue to grow and reach all age groups in our community,” she said.
“In a world where many feel increasingly isolated and silently carry their emotional burdens, our volunteers have been a steady ‘listening ear’.”
Tan said that as Befrienders Penang reflects on its achievements, it is also reminded of the strong foundation laid by Datuk Seri Khoo Keat Siew, whose vision and compassion in 1978 brought the Befrienders mission to Penang.
“His belief that even a single conversation can save a life remains the heartbeat of our organisation and at the forefront of emotional care,” she said.
She noted that in a world where silence often deepens suffering, volunteers have given a voice to the unheard, comfort to the lonely and strength to those who feel unable to move on.
“What our volunteers are doing is extraordinary,” she said, while also commending Saras and her management committee for their tireless efforts and countless hours of behind-the-scenes work.
“A person who feels heard today may have the courage to face tomorrow. A life touched by your compassion may go on to touch countless others.
“As we look ahead, let us remind ourselves that every moment of listening is a gift. Let us continue to move forward with courage, love and care, knowing that the work we do today will echo into the future.”
Tan highlighted that what makes Befrienders Penang outstanding is its “no-judgement policy”, which helps individuals find their own way through a crisis.
She also encouraged volunteers to continue nurturing understanding, reducing stigma and fostering a culture where seeking help is embraced with courage and dignity.
“Together, we are more than an organisation; we are a family bound by empathy and driven by hope. Let us foster a culture of care not only for those we serve but also for one another. Sustainable service begins with looking after our members and supporting our leaders,” she said.
Gooi also praised the work carried out by Befrienders, highlighting that mental and emotional well-being form the foundation of a healthy and resilient community.
“Often quietly and without recognition, Befrienders Penang plays an essential role in supporting individuals through moments of distress, loneliness and uncertainty.
“Your efforts remind us that sometimes the most powerful form of help is simply being present and listening with patience and care.
“Organisations like Befrienders are invaluable to society. You help build stronger and more empathetic communities while encouraging open conversations about mental health, which are increasingly important in today’s world,” he said.
He added that the time volunteers give, the listening they offer and the empathy they show make a real difference, often in ways that cannot be measured but are deeply felt.
In 2024, Gooi established the Penang Mental Health Committee to better coordinate efforts with NGOs, including Befrienders Penang, promote community awareness and strengthen mental health initiatives across schools and sports.
Last year, in conjunction with World Mental Health Day on Oct 12, 2025, Befrienders Penang organised the “Mental Health Matters” forum themed Ethical Suicide Reporting Saves Lives, bringing together media professionals to highlight the importance of responsible reporting.
Acknowledging the efforts of volunteers and supporters, Gooi said the true impact of Befrienders is not measured in numbers, but in lives quietly touched and burdens gently eased.
“I am continually inspired by your mission to alleviate distress and reduce suicide through simple human empathy, and by your role as a voice of hope when everything else falls silent.
“You remind people that they are not alone, and that is truly powerful. Every small act counts, and together we can make a meaningful difference,” he said.
Saras said the past year has shown that emotional distress remains a significant and growing concern.
She noted that more individuals have reached out, reflecting both increasing pressures in society and a growing willingness to seek help.
“The need for emotional support services continues to grow. At Befrienders Penang, we remain committed to providing a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for anyone in distress.
“Our volunteers continue to be the backbone of our organisation, giving their time and dedication,” she said.
She added that many individuals — including students, working adults and the elderly — are quietly struggling.
Her message to the public is that reaching out is a sign of strength, and help is available.
“We believe that mental health must be treated with the same urgency and importance as physical health. We need to educate to reduce stigma, ensure conversations around distress and suicide are not silenced, and encourage help-seeking,” she said.
Saras called on all sectors – government, media, educational institutions and the public to work together.
“We may not have all the answers, but we can always offer our time, and sometimes that is what saves lives.
“In a world that moves too quickly, let us not forget the power of pausing to listen — because this is where healing begins,” she said.
Below are the services Befrienders Penang provides:
- Telephone Helpline – 04 2910100 (3pm to 12midnight)
Confidential listening service available every day
- WhatsApp & SMS support – 011 56706261
For those preferring text-based communication
- Email Befriending – [email protected]
Longer reflective conversations via email
- Face-to-Face Sessions
By Appointment through the helpline
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix courtesy of YB Daniel Gooi’s office