Agong honours security guard Yogeswary for acts of kindness

In a heartwarming gesture, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah personally conveyed his appreciation to R. Yogeswary, the security guard at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital in Ipoh, who gained fame for her acts of kindness.

The King’s message came as Yogeswary was awarded the Pingat Pangkuan Negara (PPN) during an investiture ceremony at Istana Negara.

A smile and a prestigious medal

The touching words “you deserved it” from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong brought joy to Yogeswary, 44, who became known for her courteousness in assisting patients and visitors at the hospital parking lot.

“At the hospital, many patients seek treatment, they are in a sad state, as are their family members, that’s why I always want to provide good treatment because that’s the least I can do for them,” said Yogeswary.

The King personally presented the PPN during the investiture ceremony at Istana Negara, which saw Yogeswary as one of the 298 recipients in conjunction with the King’s Birthday

Lost for words, Yogeswary said she could only repeatedly say ‘thank you’ to the Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimumah Iskandariah while meeting them briefly after the ceremony.

Yogeswary overwhelmed with gratitude

Lost for words, Yogeswary expressed her gratitude, saying, “I never thought that I would be able to set foot in the Istana Negara and meet the King and Queen in person.”

Tearfully recounting the beautiful moment, she added, “The King himself wanted to see me for a while and take a picture together.” Yogeswary, donned in a black kebaya, was accompanied by her sister R. Rajeswary during this momentous occasion.

Yogeswary’s acts of kindness, which went viral on social media, caught the attention of former health minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa. The security guard’s selfless efforts, including assisting visitors and patients beyond her job scope, earned her praise.

Grateful for the recognition, Yogeswary affirmed her commitment to helping the community, stating, “I will not stop to help the community, as long as I am healthy and have energy, I will do my best to help people.”

The youngest of five siblings expressed her heartfelt thanks to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, her employer, family, and the public for their continuous support.