FOR Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the word “cancer” once carried a heavy, hushed weight.
“Back when I was a child, the adults would speak softly about it (cancer), as if saying it out loud would make it worse.
“In those days, among Chinese-educated families, there was even a belief that ‘cancer’ was spelt ‘cancel’.
“A diagnosis meant your life was cancelled,” he said.
But today, he says, that sense of finality is being replaced with something powerful, which is hope.
Chow was speaking at the official launch of the next phase of Sunway Medical Centre Penang’s Cancer Centre, a milestone event that signals a bold new chapter in Penang’s journey towards becoming a regional leader in advanced, compassionate cancer care.
“Fifty years on, we now have a fighting chance.
“Patients no longer face cancer alone.
“They have their families, a strong medical team, and the support of state-of-the-art technology,” Chow said, applauding the launch.
The newly expanded cancer centre is fast solidifying its role as the northern hub for comprehensive oncology services.
Housing next-generation tools such as Tomotherapy, robotic-assisted surgery, and advanced molecular imaging, the facility empowers doctors to detect, treat, and monitor cancer with greater accuracy and sensitivity.
Among the standout features is Malaysia’s first AI-enabled Tomotherapy system, the Tomo Radixact X9, offering precise, real-time tumour tracking and ultra-fast planning, transforming the possibilities of personalised treatment.
Yet, beyond its technological edge, the centre’s strength lies in its whole-patient approach.
From early detection to survivorship, patients receive not only medical care, but also emotional, nutritional, and rehabilitative support ,all under one roof.
Consultant clinical oncologist Dr Seah Soon Keat described the expansion as more than a facility upgrade.
“We are building a cancer centre that not only treats, but supports, restores, and empowers,” he said.
Echoing this, hospital chief executive officer Christine Lee, emphasised the human side of healing.
“Our patients are supported not just by machines, but by people, an expert team who journeys with them from day one,” she said.
Beyond its walls, Sunway’s commitment to cancer care reaches into the community. Through initiatives like the RM1 million Cancer Fund and the donation of 200 free low-dose CT scans for lung cancer screening, the hospital is removing financial and access barriers to early intervention, one of the keys to saving lives.
“These efforts resonate deeply with the Penang government’s vision of a healthcare system that is accessible, inclusive, and socially responsible.
“I sincerely thank Sunway for their unwavering efforts and meaningful contributions to public health,” Chow added.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud