PENANG has long been an advocate of community activities, and this month, as we celebrate Pink October 2025, Penang Adventist Hospital (PAH) has stacked up another initiative up its sleeves, called ‘Cap in Pink’ awareness walk in the fight against breast cancer.
It was a sunny Sunday morning (Oct 5) when thousands of faithful, putting aside their routine Sunday schedules, showed up in full pink at Gurney Bay for the walk, which State Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi flagged off.
What made the event more significant was the participation of various groups, from families, breast cancer survivors, to healthcare professionals, community members, and beyond.
Intending to break down barriers to screening and empowering women across the state to take charge of their breast health, the overwhelming response clearly reflected the shared commitment of the community as a whole to addressing this global issue.
Gooi, in his speech, expressed much delight over the positive turnout, reflecting the commitment and heart that Penangites have, especially for a communal cause such as this.
“When we prioritise breast cancer awareness together, we create an environment where women feel supported and empowered to take charge of their health.
“This collective commitment is what transforms healthcare outcomes in our state,” Gooi said in his speech.
Relatively, he extended his heartfelt appreciation to PAH for their leadership, not only in medical treatment but also for regularly going beyond in through charitable and community-based initiatives.
“Your commitment to bringing healthcare closer to the community exemplifies the kind of proactive partnership we need to create lasting change.
“Together with all our sponsors and partners, you are making a real difference in the lives of women across Penang,” Gooi added.
Meanwhile, PAH chief executive officer Albin Phua emphasised the pressing need for greater awareness about breast cancer and its repercussions among Malaysian women, if left unattended or without early detection.
“Breast cancer remains the most common cancer amongst women in Malaysia.
“Sadly, almost half of all cases in our country are diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is more complex and survival rates are lower.
“This is a clear reminder that timing makes all the difference. Yet too many women delay screenings, whether from fear, lack of knowledge, or limited access.
“This is why we organised Cap in Pink: to break these barriers, to educate our communities, and to bring awareness and screening closer to those who need it most,” Phua said in his speech.
Apart from the walk, participants also had the opportunity to engage in various comprehensive health services and educational activities, including free basic health screenings, free breast examinations via the WAW on Wheels mobile screening truck, and others.
Also present during the event was PAH group president Ronald Koh.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix courtesy of Penang Adventist Hospital