VISTA Eye Specialist and Tzu Chi Malaysia Continue Mission to Restore Sight for the Underprivileged

19 April 2025

PETALING JAYA: In a heartfelt extension of their mission to serve the underserved, VISTA Eye Specialist (VISTA) and Tzu Chi Malaysia (Tzu Chi) have once again collaborated to restore sight to the underprivileged through their second 100 Cataract Surgery Programme.

This joint initiative embodies a shared vision: that access to quality eye care should be available to all, regardless of race or income, particularly for those whose lives are profoundly affected by cataracts, a leading cause of preventable blindness.

In lower-income communities, cataracts often go untreated due to a lack of awareness, accessibility, and affordability. When left unmanaged, they can gradually deprive individuals of their independence, impacting their ability to work, care for loved ones, or even move about safely.

This is where the strength of collaboration shines. Through this programme, Tzu Chi identifies and screens patients, while VISTA provides comprehensive clinical assessments and surgical care. The initiative will span four months, offering cataract surgery and post-operative care to those most in need in the Klang Valley. Surgeries are set to commence on 21 April 2025, with follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure optimal recovery.

Behind every surgery lies a story of resilience. Many patients are elderly individuals who silently struggle with deteriorating vision that affects every aspect of their lives.

"For 40 years, I've served tea to bring comfort to others. But now, I struggle to see my own daughter, who suffered a stroke. I want to regain my sight—not for myself, but so I can continue caring for her," said Letchumy, a programme participant.

"We've been living quietly in a small house without electricity. The landlord has kindly allowed us to stay without rent, but he may need to let it go soon. I just want to see again—not for comfort, but so I can carry on, care for my husband, and face whatever comes next with strength and dignity," said Sumathy, another participant.

Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the transformative impact of sight restoration—not just physically, but emotionally and socially.

The programme commenced its first screening on 16 March 2025, welcoming 116 patients, of whom 52 were confirmed to require surgery.

A dedicated team of VISTA ophthalmologists, including Dr Mohd Ishaq Abdul Hakim, Dr Vienne Tai Pih Yih, Dr Paul Lim Chern Pin, Dr Tan Chai Lee, and Dr Nazrah bt. Mohamed Ramli, will perform the surgeries. Supporting them is a committed group of volunteers from VISTA who have assisted throughout the programme—from setting up and helping during screenings to ensuring smooth coordination on surgery days.

Tzu Chi volunteers have also played a crucial role, providing compassionate support, managing logistics, and guiding patients throughout the process. Many Tzu Chi volunteers went above and beyond during the screenings, embodying the spirit of giving back.

"At Tzu Chi, we believe that compassion is action. Every restored vision represents more than just a medical success—it signifies a renewed opportunity for someone to live with dignity, care for their family, and once again see the world with hope," said Herbert Chan, Volunteer Coordinator at Tzu Chi.

Additional support has come from Dr Teoh Swee Chai, Head of UCSI University's Optometry Department, alongside 13 optometry student volunteers who contributed their skills during the screening sessions. A second round of screenings is planned to fulfil the programme's goal of 100 surgeries.

At the heart of this initiative lies a philosophy that drives both VISTA and Tzu Chi: serving with purpose. For VISTA, this is expressed through the Japanese principle of Ikigai—the joy of engaging in fulfilling work.

"As a surgeon, restoring sight is a fundamental aspect of our profession. However, knowing that this gift allows someone to see their child, walk independently, or return to work—it is this understanding that lends deeper meaning to our work," remarked Dr Ishaq, the lead ophthalmologist for the programme at VISTA.

Restoring vision is not merely a medical accomplishment—it is an act of restoring dignity, mobility, and connection. For patients, it signifies a return to their roles as caregivers, grandparents, breadwinners, or simply active members of their communities.

The programme also represents a commitment to nurturing the next generation of eye care professionals. By collaborating with universities and involving students in community outreach, VISTA is helping to shape the future of vision care through valuable real-world learning experiences.

VISTA is proud to be recognised by Newsweek as one of Asia's Top Private Hospitals for 2025—an accolade that reflects the exceptional care, advanced medical services, and patient-first values that define the VISTA experience.

Beyond clinical excellence, VISTA has also been a Certified B Corporation since 2023, a prestigious designation acknowledging its ongoing commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Initiatives such as the 100 Charity Cataract Surgery Programme with Tzu Chi exemplify VISTA's dedication to blending expertise with compassion, making quality eye care accessible to those in need.

The success of this initiative demonstrates what is possible when expertise converges with empathy. VISTA and Tzu Chi remain steadfast in their commitment to expanding access to eye care, particularly among vulnerable communities. As the programme progresses, both organisations welcome support from individuals, partners, and communities who share the belief that sight is a fundamental human right.