Hong Leong Foundation commits more than S$2 million to NKF to upgrade dialysis centre
About S$60,000 will go towards efforts to expand kidney screenings across Singapore
[SINGAPORE] Hong Leong Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Hong Leong Group, has committed S$2 million to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) to upgrade its dialysis centre in Aljunied Crescent, which officially reopened on Sunday (Mar 16).
The upgrade, which was completed in 2024, included refurbishing works and replacing equipment used during the dialysis process to make it more comfortable for patients.
Arthur Lang, chairman of NKF, said: “(The funds) have allowed us to expand the capacity of the centre, enabling more patients to receive dialysis treatment. This also helps to improve patient care and better support patients with kidney failure.”
The centre’s capacity increased to 28 dialysis stations from 18 stations previously, and can now serve 168 patients, up from 108.
The donation also allows NKF to focus on personalised care for its patients.
“We have integrated care teams stationed at the centre to tailor the treatments for our patients on an individual basis,” Lang added.
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The dialysis centre in Aljunied was established 28 years ago, with Hong Leong Foundation donating S$1.5 million.
Expanding early detection services
The foundation donated an additional S$60,000 to NKF to expand kidney screenings across Singapore, allowing for early detection. These funds will provide at-risk individuals with free screenings and follow-up consultations when necessary.
With the funding, NKF will be able to screen 1,500 more individuals – closer to its goal of screening 5,000 individuals annually under its intervention programme.
The expansion focuses on individuals with diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, a family history of kidney failure, or an unhealthy Body Mass Index.
The non-profit organisation noted: “By identifying high-risk individuals sooner, NKF can intervene with lifestyle guidance and medical follow-ups, slowing disease progression, reducing long-term healthcare costs, and improving patient outcomes.”
Lang said that there is an urgent need for early detection services, noting: “Singapore is facing an escalating ‘kidney tsunami’. Since the first observance of World Kidney Day in 2006, NKF’s patient numbers have nearly tripled, from 2,000 to almost 6,000 patients today.”
There are more people being diagnosed with kidney failure every day, from 4.5 a day about 10 years ago, to six a day currently.
Kwek Eik Sheng, governor of Hong Leong Foundation, added: “Beyond supporting dialysis care, we also want to tackle kidney disease at the root, as early detection is definitely a more cost-effective and resource-efficient way to manage kidney failure. This will benefit both the patients and healthcare system.”
Besides financial support, Hong Leong Foundation also participated in NKF’s Befriending Programme, where staff volunteers provided companionship to dialysis patients during their treatment sessions.
Kwek noted: “Our philanthropic endeavours support the health and well-being of the vulnerable roots, like the elderly and the underprivileged, (which are) some of our key priorities, because these are areas where our contributions can make a significant impact.”
The foundation is working with NKF to conduct health talks for Hong Leong Group staff about the leading causes of kidney failure, diabetes and hypertension, and to emphasise the importance of adopting healthier lifestyle choices.
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