MELAKA: A hotelier in the city chose to swap her usual work attire for a Nyonya Kebaya to inspire breast cancer survivors during a Pink October awareness programme here.
Senior hotel director Emmelynn Kuan, 45, turned heads when she arrived at the health awareness event on Saturday (October 25) in a traditional Peranakan outfit at a hotel in the city centre.
She said wearing the colourful pink- coloured Nyonya Kebaya was her way of showing courage and promoting local heritage.
“The Nyonya Kebaya is part of our history, and I am proud to wear one during this event.
"I told the survivors they would look beautiful in it too,” she said when met after the programme.
Kuan said she wanted the survivors to feel confident about themselves after their battle with cancer.
“As a Melakan, I also want to do my part to keep our traditions alive.
"It's meaningful to wear something that represents both strength and beauty,” she said.
Kuan said her appearance in a Nyonya Kebaya also reflected Melaka’s effort to promote the Peranakan culture.
Earlier this week, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh announced that tourists wearing Nyonya Kebaya will be given complimentary entry to major attractions in the state starting next year.
On the Pink October programme, organised by We Care and Mediway Health Group, Kuan said, was aimed at creating awareness on early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
The event drew about 120 participants, including 21 cancer survivors, who took part in free health screenings and health talks.
Kuan said she made it a priority to attend her first Pink October event despite a busy weekend for hoteliers due to several tourism activities taking place across the state.
"It's about celebrating and raising awareness for breast cancer.
"It reminds everyone how vital early detection and regular check-ups are,” she said, adding that she was also pleased to see many young Malaysians joining the campaign.
