Young participants performing an aerobic dance during the programme at the Penang City Park. – LIM BENG TATT/The Star
SOME 120 young participants enjoyed a fun Kids’ Day Out held to raise awareness about cancer among children at the Penang City Park.
It was organised by the Childhood Cancer Association Northern Region (Foccan) and supported by Penang Island City Council after a two-year hiatus.
Foccan president Maznah Tayib said the annual programme was held in conjunction with Children Cancer Awareness Month.
“As we all know, most of these children have been facing difficulties with their struggle against cancer and we are trying our best to make them happy,” she said.
She said the programme had been organised since 2016 but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it was temporarily halted in 2020 and 2021.
Among the activities that were prepared for the children were archery, colouring contests and sports activities.
During the event, some of the children recited poems and shared their stories about their struggle in fighting cancer.
The event was participated by Maybank, Pharmaniaga, Golden Screen Cinemas, state Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry and the Royal Malaysian Air Force.
Among the non-governmental organisations that were involved in the event were Jalinan Amal Qaseh, Cancer Survivors Malaysia, Cancer Associates & Kindred Network and Pertubuhan Ihsan Muda.
During the event, the children were treated to a surprise with the appearance of actors Nas T, Pablo Amirul and Iman Corrine who acted in the movie Air Force The Movie – Selagi Bernyawa.The children took the opportunity to take pictures with the actors during the event.
Also present at the event were state health director Datuk Dr Ma’arof Sudin and Penang Hospital paediatric oncologist specialist Dr Yeoh Seoh Leng, who is also a Foccan adviser.
At a press conference after the event, Dr Ma’arof congratulated Foccan for raising awareness about cancer among children to the public.
“Such an event is important to the public as it can help identify cancer among children at an early stage.
“This will enable the parents of affected children to seek early treatment for them,” he said.
He added that with the latest technology, there were higher chances for children diagnosed with cancer to be cured.
Young participants performing an aerobic dance during the programme at the Penang City Park. – LIM BENG TATT/The Star
Dr Ma’arof congratulates Foccan for raising awareness about cancer among children.
Dr Yeoh was also in attendance.
