Juliah (center) holding an inspirational poster in support of the program, alongside Jannie (fourth from right) and MUTIARA-GRS members.–Information Department photo
KOTA KINABALU (May 4): Many breast cancer patients in Sabah are delaying medical treatment in favor of traditional remedies, leading to advanced-stage diagnoses, said Sabah Kinabalu Pink Ribbon president Christy Fe Salazar.
She revealed that some patients only seek medical help when their condition becomes critical, often arriving at the hospital in late stages.
“Early detection could have saved their lives — it’s heartbreaking,” she added.
Financial struggles and high travel costs further hinder treatment, especially for rural patients.
“Many can’t afford the trip or need companions, adding to the burden,” Salazar said at the 13th Walk Abreast Mother’s Day charity event at Likas Bay public park, which drew over 1,000 participants.
The event, themed “Walk for Life, Walk for Hope,” was officiated by Sabah Chief Minister’s wife Datin Seri Juliah Salag and aimed to promote breast cancer awareness and early screening.
Kinabalu Sabah Pink Ribbon provides RM300 travel aid and a free halfway home in Kota Kinabalu for rural patients, as the city remains Sabah’s sole radiotherapy center.
Salazar urged women to prioritize health screenings: “Early detection saves lives.”
Juliah also participated in the 10-kilometer walk as a show of solidarity with cancer fighters.
Organizing vhairperson Jacqueline John said the program was not just a recreational event but a symbol of support and strength for all women affected by the disease.
“Our main objective is to convey the message that patients and survivors are not alone in their fight. They have a community that constantly supports and understands the challenges they face,” she said when met by the media after the participant send-off ceremony.
According to Jacqueline, Kinabalu Pink Ribbon has consistently conducted awareness programs across Sabah, including in Tawau, Keningau and Tuaran, in collaboration with medical specialists from Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Hospital.
She also announced that the Sabah Kinabalu Pink Ribbon Charity Dance Dinner, will be held on June 7 at Putra Ballroom to raise funds for the purchase of a RM12,000 Lymphedema machine.
“This machine is crucial in helping survivors who experience arm swelling due to lymph node removal.
Currently, there is no such machine in Sabah, and we hope to make this purchase a reality,” she explained.
She added that Kinabalu Pink Ribbon now has over 500 members, most of whom are breast cancer patients and survivors.
Jacqueline also urged women to undergo regular health check-ups, as breast cancer remains the leading killer of women in the country, with statistics showing that one in 19 women are at risk of developing the disease.
Also present were KPD (Koperasi Pembangunan Desa) chairperson and Kepayan assemblywoman Jannie Lasimbang and members of MUTIARA-GRS.
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