KUCHING: The Pink Ribbon Support Group Sarawak should work closely with the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) to enhance breast cancer awareness among women.
Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali said both organisations should pool their resources to raise awareness about breast and cervical cancer.
“LPPKN has set a target of reaching 30,000 women for cervical cancer screenings this year. This is an opportunity we should capitalise on.
“Early detection is important. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that more women are also informed on breast cancer, know how to perform self-examinations, and undergo regular check-ups, so more lives can be saved from dangerous diseases like breast and cervical cancer.
“These are the two main cancers that claim the lives of many women,” she said.
Hasidah made these remarks while officiating the Pink Aerobic programme, held in conjunction with World Breast Cancer Awareness Month, during the Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) Car-Free Morning event at Padang Merdeka today (Oct 20).
Hasidah also assured that the Sarawak government is committed to supporting such health initiatives.
“Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is always supportive of efforts that benefit our women.
“I believe we need to collaborate more with LPPKN and other government agencies to keep organising good programmes like this,” she added.
The Pink Aerobics programme is part of Pink Ribbon’s month-long campaign during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to spread awareness and celebrate survivors.
The event also featured educational booths promoting early detection through regular screening and Breast Self-Examination.
Also present were DBKU mayor Datuk Hilmy Othman, LPPKN chairman Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim and Pink Ribbon Support Group Sarawak president Suriani Rapaiee.
