MELAKA: The Melaka government has increased its allocation for free cancer screenings to RM850,000 this year under the MBio Sihat Programme, up from RM700,000 annually in 2024 and 2025.
State health, human resources and unity committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem said the screenings were conducted through Melaka Bioteknologi Corporation, via blood tests to detect early-stage cancer markers, including those for liver, colon, ovarian and prostate cancers.
"This year, an estimated 8,500 individuals will be able to undergo free cancer screening, which costs RM100 per person. The quota for this year is nearly full.
"The screening is open to Melaka residents aged 40 and above. So far, we have seen an overwhelming response, which shows that public awareness of early cancer detection is high," he told reporters after officiating the Oh My Health Programme here on Sunday (Aug 2).
He said since last year, the screenings were mostly conducted through the state government's outreach programmes, such as the Wakil Rakyat Untuk Rakyat programme and other health initiatives.
He said that for instance, at privately organised events like last year's Oh My Health programme, some 400 participants underwent the cancer screening.
On a separate matter, Ngwe said Melaka successfully collects between 29,000 and 30,000 bags of blood annually, ensuring a stable supply to meet patient needs.
He said 300 to 400 blood donation drives are held each year by numerous parties, either through mobile campaigns or at the Melaka Hospital Blood Donation Centre.
"Melaka ranks second best in Malaysia in terms of blood supply, as we actively run donation programmes. On average, we collect about 82 bags of blood per day.
"The blood we collect serves not only Melaka's patients but also those from other states, including Sabah and Sarawak," he said.- Bernama
