Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Tan Sri Bernard Giluk Dompok, who is also Penampang Member of Parliament, and Sabah Assistant Finance Minister Donald Mojuntin, who is also Moyog Assemblyman, visited him about 2pm.

They spoke to the photographer and his wife, Lily Benjamin, for about 20 minutes. The couple have four school-going children.

Since Sept 11, Rayner, who is attached to Bernama's Tawau office, has been hospitalised for brain infection. Four blood clots were detected in the brain.

He is currently undergoing a two-week viral infection medical treatment. Brain surgery will be considered, based on his progress after that period Last Friday, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman visited Rayner.

The media fraternity in the State has been on a massive campaign to collect donations for his treatment. Those interested to make donations may contact Sandra Sokial (016-8440287), James Tseu (016-8329883) or Jaswinder Kaur (012-8270200).

Meanwhile, the Tawau Reporters' Association (TRA) has raised a total of RM12,530 for Rayner.

Its Chairman, Hiew Chee Hin, said the contribution was put together in just a short period thanks to the strong support for the association's initiative to conduct the drive.

Hiew and the association's treasurer, Woo Soon Fatt, flew to the capital to visit Rayner and present the contribution Monday.

"We are happy as the generous contribution came from advisers and members of the association as well as individuals who heard and responded almost immediately to the call," he said, adding there were also donors who were not from the media fraternity.