Kota Kinabalu: What began as a moment of compassion turned into an act of kindness for Sharon Voo, 36, after she saw patients and their families sitting in hospital hallways, waiting for hours beside loved ones admitted for treatment, or queuing to collect medicine and attend medical reviews.
The sight, coupled with a Facebook post highlighting the situation, moved her deeply. Filled with compassion, she immediately decided she wanted to do something to ease their burden and bring them a little comfort.
The very next day, Sharon prepared bottles of coffee and drove from Keningau to the hospital at 5.30am to distribute the drinks free of charge.
“My heart was heavy seeing those people waiting for so long. I had been through the same situation, so I know exactly how it feels. I immediately handed out the drinks, hoping they would bring comfort and warmth,” she said.
Originally from Kg Tenom Lama, Sharon now lives in Keningau with her husband and children. She commutes daily to Tenom to manage the family’s eatery business.
She hopes to continue distributing the bottled coffee, branded “Onsoi”, to hospital visitors in the future.
Sharon said she was inspired by her father, Voo Loon Sang, who operated the family’s Yun Lee Restaurant in Tenom. She described him as her mentor, crediting him for teaching her not only the skills needed to run a business, but also the values of generosity and compassion.
She recalled how, when her father was still active in the business, he would ensure a mute resident from the area was safely sent home every night, even though the man was not employed by the family.
“Out of pity and kindness, my father always made sure he got home safely. That memory has stayed with me,” she said.
“My parents are now retired because of health issues, but my father has always been my role model. I learned a great deal from him, not only about business, but also about kindness, humility and the importance of helping others,” she added.
Sharon was also among the recipients of the Shellwire Award in recognition of her efforts in supporting the farming community through the cultivation and promotion of locally grown coffee beans.
