May 2026
It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Dr Patrick Sookhdeo, co-founder of Olive Aid Trust, who went to be with the Lord on 18 May 2026.
Dr Sookhdeo dedicated much of his life to a cause that the world too often overlooks — the suffering and persecuted Church. His deep compassion for Christians facing hardship, discrimination, and persecution across the globe was the driving force behind the work he helped establish through Olive Aid Trust in South East Asia. It was his vision that brought this ministry to life in our region, and his heart for the marginalized and forgotten continues to shape everything we do.
We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Rosemary, to his family, and to all who knew and loved him. His passing leaves a great void, but also a great legacy — one built on faith, courage, and an unwavering commitment to standing alongside brothers and sisters in Christ who suffer for their faith.
Dr Sookhdeo once said:
“My inspiration has always been Barnabas, the encourager, who stood up for the suffering saints of the early Church.”
That same spirit of encouragement, courage, and solidarity lives on in the work of Olive Aid Trust, and we remain committed to carrying it forward.
Nic Ng of Olive Aid Trust Malaysia said:
“When Dr Sookhdeo was in Petaling Jaya shortly before his passing, he reflected on the many trials and challenges he had faced since the hostile takeover of the Barnabas Fund charities in the United Kingdom in April 2024. Despite everything, his response was to cling firmly to God’s promises in Romans 8:28: ‘And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.’”
To our donors, partners, and supporters, we ask for your prayers during this season of grief — for Rosemary and the family, for our team, and for persecuted Christians around the world whom this ministry exists to serve.
We also humbly ask that you stand with us now more than ever. The need has not diminished. If anything, Dr Sookhdeo’s passing reminds us of the urgency of this calling. Your continued and generous support will help ensure that the work he devoted his life to will endure — that no suffering Christian will be forgotten, and that the voice he raised for the voiceless will not fall silent.
In his memory, and in faithful service to the Lord we all serve, we press on.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2
Olive Aid Trust Malaysia
Standing with the Persecuted and Suffering Church