NORTHERN Heart Hospital Penang (NHH) is set to host its community-driven cardiovascular awareness event, “Heartchella 2026 – World Heart Day,” at the Gurney Plaza alfresco area on Sept 19.
Running from 4pm to 9pm, the initiative aims to bring cardiovascular health awareness closer to the public under the catchphrase concept “Heart Check La!”, transforming routine healthcare conversations into a simple, approachable, and engaging community experience.
Also present at the press conference were NHH chief executive officer Kelen Leong, Person-in-Charge and consultant cardiologist Dr Tan Chiang Soo, general manager Katrina Felix, and Marketing and Corporate Communication head Teyressa Lee.
Speaking at the session, Leong emphasised that heart health should be an integral part of everyday conversation rather than a topic addressed only during illness.
“We want to bring heart-health awareness closer to the community in a way that is simple, approachable, and fun,” Leong said.
She thanked various sponsors and venue partners, including Gurney Plaza, Novugen, Gae Kwong Electrical Engineering, LAC Medical, LKL Beds, Innoquest, City Medic, TAGS, Peak Fitness, Utoo Boho Patisserie, Sama by Sandwish, Yogood, E&O Hotel, Park Royal Penang, G Hotel, St Giles Wembley, Perdana Hotel, The Prestige Hotel, Eastin Hotel, and Nando’s.
Echoing her sentiments, Tan highlighted the critical importance of early detection and preventative action regarding silent cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and silent heart rhythm abnormalities.
Summarising the event’s vision into four key pillars — Check, Learn, Move, Enjoy — Tan stressed that active lifestyle choices and emergency preparedness are essential life-saving skills.
“From a doctor’s perspective, there is one message I hope everyone remembers today: Do not wait for symptoms before you start thinking about your heart,” he advised.
Key highlights of the Heartchella 2026 health awareness campaign include complimentary health screenings, such as blood pressure checks, blood glucose screenings, and Finger ECG assessments. The campaign will also feature large-scale interactive sessions, including Mass CPR & AED training and Mass Body Combat, each expected to attract over 100 participants.
Families can look forward to interactive exhibits, a medical technology showcase, and an appearance by the event mascot, Jimmy Jantung. At the same time, attendees will also have the chance to win attractive prizes in a lucky draw.
Story and pix by Sarbeyshwaran Rajalingam