DESPITE her hectic schedule of Red Crescent activities the late Datuk Paduka Ruby Lee also ensured that her volunteers were also well cared for, a fact unknown to many.

Having joined the Malaysian Red Crescent Society in 1960, I, too, like hundreds of other young members, grew up under her disciplined and dynamic leadership. 

Senior members have fond memories of Lee’s kindness, guidance and love showered on them during her 32 years as secretary-general until she retired in 1996.

Whenever the members returned from disaster relief duties, she always had food on the table for everyone, which would include breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and hot drinks available 24 hours.

No one worked with a hungry stomach.

Members on late night duty were either transported home by Red Crescent vehicles or, if they chose, sleep safely at MRCS headquarters. This also brought relief to worried parents as their children were away from home for longer periods.

Immediately after every disaster relief duty, she would award letters of appreciation to members.

This brought great joy to them and made Lee a special leader to be remembered.

During functions, she always introduced every member present to the invited guests and leaders.

She is an extraordinary leader who felt proud to give credit where credit is due whether it’s a big or small achievement.

Lee would even sacrifice her rest days to attend most of the activities organised by members.

She encouraged healthy discussions and debates on Red Crescent topics to build a mature leadership. This paid off as many members excelled as outstanding leaders in the society.

The above are only a few of the many interesting and unforgettable stories of Lee’s love for the energetic members who worked tirelessly in any given situation.

She devoted almost her entire life to humanity through the Malaysian Red Crescent Society and brought credit to the movement and Malaysia abroad. Her teamwork paid off too.

For all these and other humble services and achievements, as one who had worked with her at various times, I regard Lee, who died at age 82 on June 14, as mother of Malaysian  Red Crescent Society.

No question about it.
 

                                                                                                                                                  S. T. Rajagopal
                                                                                                                                                  Kuala Lumpur