KUCHING: Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang has called for Sarawakians to play their role in supporting kids and families in their fight against cancer.
He said that cancer remains as one of the leading cause of death among children in Sarawak with one child being diagnosed with cancer every five days.
He pointed out that the fight against cancer is not easy, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment childhood cancer is treatable.
“Every year on Feb 15, we celebrate the International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) to raise awareness of childhood cancer and the impact it has on children with cancer, survivors and their families.
“This year together with Sarawak’s Children Cancer Society (SCCS), we want to call for greater collaboration for all parties to get involved in creating awarewness on childhood cancer among the community,” he said today.
Tiang noted that the theme for this year’s ICCD, ‘Better Childhood Cancer Survival is Achievable through their Hands’ and paid tribute to the roles that families and caregivers play as well as the sacrifices they make in order to make a positive impact on the lives of children with cancer.
“Families and caregivers are an irreplaceable part of the care journey as they guide, support and advocate for their child. Their full involvement and cooperation with the health and medical team is important in helping kids fight cancer to achieve better life.
“I believe everyone has a role to play and this is where we step up in our own way to support kids and families in their cancer fighting journey. We are stronger together, and together we can help kids fight cancer,” he added.
