Late Dr Maku remembered

Dedicated to his duty and a servant to the people was how the late Dr John Maku was described.

A respectable senior in the medical fraternity, Dr Maku was one of the first three obstetricians and gynaecologists to have graduated in 1989.

He remained in clinical health service for 42 uninterrupted years, making him the longest serving obstetrician and gynaecologist in the country.

Displaying true patriotism, Dr Maku, from East New Britain Province, was employed by the National Department of Health, based in Nonga Hospital.

He was deputy chief obstetrician and gynaecologist for the New Guinea Islands until his passing in the early hours of Sunday, February 4, 2018, after a short illness.

His life was celebrated yesterday as families, friends, colleagues and those whose lives he touched came together for a final farewell at the funeral service here in Port Moresby. 

It was a small but meaningful one as people from each circle reflected on the life of the man who was an asset to the country, yet full of humility.

Daughter Margaret Maku said he was well connected to his place of origin, the culture and to his children and local youth; he stressed the importance of education.

Dr Maku’s life was spent being a doctor, teacher and mentor for women’s clinical health service in PNG.

His notable work with the National Doctors Association includes being part of six National Doctors Award signing with the government, resulting in reducing the attrition rate mark and retaining doctors in the public health system and contribution towards making sure doctors are being well looked after by the government.

“At the end of the day, he was a husband, father and grandfather to his family,” said daughter Margaret.

Also at his funeral service today was the Minister for Police and Gazelle MP, Jelta Wong, who said his passing is a loss for East New Britain.

Wong said his government will try to do something to recognise people like Dr Maku, who have done so much for the province silently for so long.

Author: 
Gloria Bauai