Dow helps raise public awareness of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus disorder

KUALA LUMPUR: Dow Chemical (M) Sdn Bhd has raised RM150,000 for Persatuan SLE Malaysia (Malaysian SLE Association) to support their activities in creating public awareness of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) autoimmune disorder that can cause severe damage to the body's tissues and organs.
The amount raised was a combination of Dow employees' fundraising efforts and the sale of golf flights to corporate customers.
"Dow Malaysia is proud to partner with Persatuan SLE Malaysia in its journey to create greater public awareness of the SLE disorder to Malaysians, and to support its research activities to develop a cure," said James Thong, country manager for Dow Chemical (M) Sdn Bhd.
"At Dow, we are committed to improving the communities we operate in and encouraging employee engagement. Supporting the Persatuan SLE Malaysia allows us to do just that," he said.
The amount raised will go towards public awareness activities including share and care sessions, education activities, and forums focused especially towards the patients' families.
The funds will also go towards financial support of medical procedures for those who are less well-off.
Due to the scarcity of data related to SLE, there is little attention towards this disorder and Dow Malaysia hopes to help improve funding for the lupus research with the goal of enhancing the long term quality of life for the patients and their families.
Persatuan SLE Malaysia is also planning to set up the Lupus Resource Centre at their premise that will include a lupus gallery, library, counselling room and an administrative centre.