On March 13, 2025—World Kidney Day—the Tzu Chi Renal Dialysis Centre in Singapore’s Wanguo Community was officially inaugurated. The opening ceremony brought together leaders from the National Kidney Foundation, community representatives, donors, and healthcare professionals, all united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of those living with kidney disease.
Meeting a Growing Need
Singapore has seen a steady rise in kidney failure cases in recent years, with diabetes-related kidney disease among the highest globally. In response, the Tzu Chi Singapore branch spent five years preparing to open its first non-profit dialysis center, with full support from the Ministry of Health and the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). The center now provides affordable, high-quality hemodialysis for renal patients.
A Community Effort for Well-Being
At the opening, Low Swee Seh (劉瑞士), CEO of Tzu Chi Singapore, reflected on the organization’s two decades of support for kidney patients, beginning with financial aid for the very first recipient in 2005. Recognizing the lack of non-profit dialysis centers in the northeast, Tzu Chi decided to establish this new facility. Low expressed gratitude to the NKF for its operational support and training. He emphasized the center’s mission of “healing people, healing the sick, and healing the heart.” Beyond medical care, the center aims to enhance quality of life through volunteer companionship, psychological support, and diverse activities, making it a “second home” where patients can rest, recuperate, and support one another.
“Many of our first batch of renal patients were referred from other dialysis centers, and they told our staff that they feel at home at Tzu Chi's Renal Dialysis Centre. They felt the warmth and care, and they hope that in the future, the dialysis center can play a bigger role in the community. They also look forward to the opportunity for us to expand our services,” shared CEO Low.
A New Standard of Care and Dignity
Member of Parliament Ms. Ng Ling Ling (黃玲玲) praised the center’s holistic approach, noting that it not only provides medical care but also supports patients’ mental and emotional well-being. Since opening in 2024, the center has already benefited residents in the northeast. She hopes the activity space will be used for health education, helping families learn about nutrition and healthy living in a relaxed, engaging environment.
Ms. Ng remarked, “The business-class dialysis space gives patients dignity and respect. I hope the center will host health events that attract young families, so everyone can learn about wellness together.”
Ms. Yen Tan (陳秀燕), CEO of the National Kidney Foundation, highlighted the urgent need for collaboration to address Singapore’s “kidney disease tsunami.” She called the center a model of partnership, saying, “If more organizations can provide subsidized dialysis, it will be a great step forward. I hope Tzu Chi will soon open a second center.”
A Second Home for Patients
For patients like 63-year-old Mr. Lim, the center has been life-changing. Estranged from family and living in temporary housing, Lim found not only high-quality dialysis but also a sense of belonging. Volunteers helped him secure a rental flat, furnished it with essentials, and created a warm environment. For the first time, Lim has a place to call his own.
Lim receives 13 dialysis treatments each month, costing about SGD 2,600. After government subsidies, Tzu Chi’s financial aid, and MediShield Life, his out-of-pocket cost is just SGD 200 from his MediSave account—an immense relief for someone working part-time.
Lim praised, “The nurses pay attention to many details about me and remember my favorite TV programs. The volunteers chat with me, care about my daily life, and even visit me at home. This place truly feels like my second home.” To express his gratitude, Lim performed two classic songs on the piano at the opening ceremony, dedicating them to the staff and volunteers.
Holistic, Human-Centered Design
Khoo Jyh Hao (邱志豪), head of the Charity Development Department at Tzu Chi Singapore, explained that the center’s design prioritizes patient comfort and dignity. Sixteen semi-enclosed dialysis beds offer privacy, each with an adjustable TV and remote for the four-hour treatment sessions. Lighting is gentle, and the spacious layout allows patients to relax and feel at ease.
Medical volunteers are present during dialysis sessions, offering companionship, listening, and psychological support. The team works closely with social workers to understand each patient’s needs and provide appropriate assistance.
The center also features a special activity space called the “Wellness Place,” which regularly hosts health talks and festive events, encouraging patients to connect and support with one another.
Building on a Foundation of Hope
Currently, the center serves 31 patients, with 24 receiving dialysis subsidies and 10 receiving other forms of assistance. Patients range in age from 43 to 87. Tzu Chi plans to expand services to reach even more people in need.
As the opening ceremony concluded, staff quickly returned to preparing the center for daily operations, ready to welcome patients into a space defined by dignity, care, and community. The Tzu Chi Renal Dialysis Centre stands as a beacon of hope, offering not just treatment but a true sense of home for all who enter.
