MIRI: Sarawak records about 60 to 70 new childhood cancer cases yearly, and this figure does not include children in remission or those experiencing relapses.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting said this is a cause for concern as childhood cancer stands as one of the leading causes of death in children under the age of 18.
Nevertheless, he believes that cancer can be treated when detected early in children.
“Therefore, early detection for childhood cancer is very important because children are able to fight it due to their youthful energy and high spirit,” he said.
He said this during the 2023 Aisyah Beats Cancer Balloon Maze launching ceremony here recently.
Ting further said the programme organised by the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) is timely, aiming to raise awareness about childhood cancer and extend support to children and families facing this battle.
“The Aisyah Beats Cancer Balloon Maze is an interactive and enjoyable event to educate each other and others about childhood cancer and encourage involvement in supporting those who have experienced this challenging journey,” he said.
Later, Ting also presented a donation of RM30,000 to former SCCS’s president Jocelyn Hee as a sign of support for SCCS.
The Aisyah Beats Cancer Balloon Maze program, held in conjunction with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, will last for three days from Sept 22 to 24.
