CM pays tribute to MALC's legacy of healing & hope

Center's humanitarian legacy draws laurels on World Leprosy Day

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Monday paid rich tribute to the Mary Adelaide Leprosy Centre (MALC) for its decades-long humanitarian services, saying that celebrating its Platinum Jubilee alongside the 73rd World Leprosy Day was a tribute to healing, hope and humanity.

Addressing a ceremony held at a local hotel, the chief minister said MALC's journey from a leprosy control programme to a leading humanitarian institution was truly commendable. The event was attended by the German consul general, MALC Chief Executive Officer Marvin Lobo and other dignitaries.

The chief minister said MALC had consistently stood by those who were once socially marginalised, serving them with compassion, dignity and unwavering commitment. He paid glowing tribute to the late Dr Ruth Pfau, describing her name as synonymous with Pakistan's fight against leprosy. He also acknowledged the vital role of the religious congregation "Daughters of the Heart of Mary" in shaping MALC's enduring legacy. Murad Ali Shah expressed gratitude to the people of Germany for their continued humanitarian support since 1962 and described Dr Pfau as a powerful symbol of compassion beyond borders. Welcoming MALC's expansion into comprehensive development initiatives for children suffering from neurodevelopmental disorders, he said the move reflected a forward-looking approach aligned with present-day social needs and the promotion of inclusive education.

Referring to the long-standing partnership between the Sindh government and MALC, the chief minister said the centre was among the oldest non-governmental organisations working under a public-private partnership model, reflecting mutual trust, credibility and confidence.

Highlighting MALC's Leprosy Elimination Strategy 2024–2030, Murad Ali Shah termed it a national cause and assured full support from the Sindh government to achieve its objectives. He stressed that international cooperation, particularly the use of modern technology and global expertise, was essential for the success of the mission. Congratulating the entire MALC team, the chief minister said the institution had been serving poor and marginalised communities, especially in remote areas, for more than seven decades. He expressed satisfaction that locally trained teams, mentored under Dr Ruth Pfau's guidance, were carrying forward her legacy with the same compassion, dedication and professional standards.