THE Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) has unveiled the latest edition of its biennial fundraiser, the Red Ribbon Gala 2008.

Themed Red Carpet Glamour, the event will bring together Kuala Lumpur’s corporate giants, socialites and award-winning media in an evening of glamour and philanthropy on Oct 25.

Graced by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Nur Zahirah, the gala will feature Hollywood’s favourite red carpet designer Elie Saab with his Autumn/Winter 2008-2009 Haute Couture Collection from Paris.

The highlights of the event include the announcement of the winners of the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Red Ribbon Media Awards in recognition of journalistic excellence in HIV/AIDS reporting, and the winner of the Dr Siti Hasmah Award which recognises outstanding contributions of an individual or organisation which has done exemplary work to support people living with HIV/AIDS in Malaysia.

The MAF hopes to raise some RM2 million from this year’s event. This will be raised through the sales of tables at RM50,000 and RM35,000 as well as through an auction.
Several exclusive items will be put on auction, including a specially designed brooch by Mondial Rare Jewels and watches by Gerald Charles, the renowned watchmaker from Geneva.

Another attraction is a tour of the McLaren factory in Wooking and Mercedes-Benz Brand Centre in Brooklyn, courtesy of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

The package includes return air tickets and accommodation courtesy of the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London.

Funds raised are in aid of the MAF’s Circle of Hope campaign that supports several of its projects assisting both adults and children living with HIV/AIDS.

For more information, call 03-4045-1033 or visit website www.mac.org.my. All donations are tax exempted.