Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad receives donations worth RM3.5 million for Tabung Harapan Malaysia from a coalition of 18 Chinese associations as well as individual donors at the Ideal Convention Centre, Shah Alam July 22, 2018. — Picture by Azneal Ishak

SHAH ALAM, July 22 — A coalition of 18 Chinese associations as well as individual donors collectively donated RM3.5 million to Tabung Harapan Malaysia today.

The cheques were handed to Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who received the donations on behalf of the fund following a fundraising dinner tonight.

“This event tonight is not one forced by anyone. It came from the hearts of all Malaysians,” Dr Mahathir said in a speech before receiving a mock cheque for the sum.

“Nobody forced you to come, but you came because you feel responsible about the things happening in our country.”

Dr Mahathir also took aim at predecessor Datuk Seri Najib Razak, reminding attendees of the feat the country managed in voting out a “dictatorship” in the 14th general election.

Malay Mail was made to understand that this is the first ever time the 18 associations, known as Persatuan-Persatuan Klang, have come together for any event.

Also present were Dr Mahathir’s wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, and top Pakatan Harapan leaders.

Over 3,000 people including business community leaders as well as supporters of PH and Dr Mahathir filled the hall for the event.

According to the Finance Ministry on Friday, contributions to the fund approached RM156 million.