PENANG must continue fostering a caring and supportive community for children battling cancer and their families, says Tan Lean Kee, wife of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Tan, who is also Patron of NCSM Home of Hope Penang, said the well-being of children should not be seen as the sole responsibility of parents or healthcare professionals, but as a shared responsibility involving the government, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), community groups and the wider public.
“The government, NGOs, community organisations and every individual can all play a part in creating a more caring and supportive environment for our children and families,” she said.
Tan said this in her speech at the launch of the Light It Up Gold 2026 Campaign, held in conjunction with the Dare2Dream Dance & Talent Championship 2026 at Sunshine Central Mall yesterday.
She said the campaign’s gold colour symbolised the strength and courage of childhood cancer warriors, the love and sacrifices of their families, as well as the hope shared by the community.
“To all our childhood cancer warriors and their families, please know that you are not alone. Your courage inspires us, and tonight, we stand together with you,” she said.
Tan also congratulated Dare2Dream Management on reaching its 11th year of the Hope journey, from 2016 to 2026, saying the milestone reflected years of commitment, compassion and the belief that no child or family should have to face childhood cancer alone.
She also praised the organisers, sponsors, community partners, volunteers and supporters for their contributions to the campaign.
“Your kindness helps to spread awareness, support families and, most importantly, bring hope,” she said.
Tan said Penang had always been known for its spirit of gotong-royong, where people come together to support one another in times of need.
She also encouraged children and young participants taking part in the talent championship to enjoy the experience, believe in themselves and continue to dream.
“Tonight is not just about talent and competition. It is about using our talents and our voices to bring people together and make a positive difference,” she said.
Tan expressed hope that the golden light of the campaign would continue to shine beyond the launch and into homes, schools and communities throughout Penang.
Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze said organisations such as NCSM Home of Hope Penang play a vital role in supporting children and their families by providing comfort, assistance and accommodation throughout their treatment journey.
He said the campaign also highlighted the power of inclusion by bringing together people of different backgrounds and generations through activities such as the Walk with Hope and the Talent Championship.
“With participants ranging from three to 69 years old, the event demonstrates that there should never be limits placed on dreams and potential,” he said.
Also present were Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Penang Women Development Corporation (PWDC) chief executive officer Datuk Ong Bee Leng, and Light It Up Gold founder Tracie Chan.
Story by Edmund Lee