Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors in Penang: The ‘Gift Of Time’

In a state already grappling with the highest rate of breast cancer cases in Malaysia, the recent “Gift Of Time” event took place with a mission that goes beyond mere survival. It was all about celebrating life, creating bonds, and empowering women to face their journeys with hope.

The event was hosted by the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), supported by Novartis Malaysia and Penang Adventist Hospital’s oncologists. More than just an awareness initiative, it was a heartfelt tribute to the resilience and courage of breast cancer survivors.

Penang: The epicenter of breast cancer in Malaysia

For many, Penang is a paradise of food and culture. But what’s lesser known is its unfortunate distinction of having the highest breast cancer cases in the country—about 50 cases per 100,000 women. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Malaysian women, with survivors predominantly between the ages of 40 to 69.

This isn’t just a national issue; globally, the trend shows that Asian countries see diagnoses in younger women compared to their Western counterparts. In Malaysia, this reality is felt even more strongly, and events like “Gift Of Time” aim to bridge that gap by offering not only knowledge but also support.

A safe space for connection and growth

Breast cancer is more than a physical struggle—it’s a mental and emotional one too. “Gift Of Time” provided the perfect platform for survivors to bond over their shared experiences. There were wellness talks, survivor-sharing sessions, and even mindfulness activities. It wasn’t just about getting through treatment, but about thriving and finding new meaning in life post-cancer.

One highlight of the event was the personal story of a 48-year-old survivor who had fought cancer three times. Starting with ovarian cancer at just 25, she later battled breast cancer and then a relapse. For her, every struggle was an opportunity to reassess her life and come out stronger. This kind of hope and resilience serves as a beacon of strength for others.

“It’s not just about the treatment; it’s about self-care, emotional well-being, and embracing a balanced life. The goal is to ensure these women can live as fully and meaningfully as possible.”

Dr. Dalilah Kamaruddin, Head of External Services at NCSM

Cutting-Edge Treatments and Partnerships

The event didn’t just focus on the emotional and social aspects of survivorship. The medical innovations were just as crucial. Oncologists Dr. Ang Soo Fan and Dr. Kiley Loh discussed how breast cancer subtypes—hormone-positive, HER2+, and triple-negative have paved the way for personalized treatments. They emphasized the importance of both survival and quality of life, noting how advances in treatment, combined with healthy lifestyle habits, are enabling patients to live longer, fuller lives.

Mohamed Elwakil, Novartis Malaysia Country President highlighted the importance of partnerships in cancer care, bringing together hospitals, advocacy groups, and patient support networks. Peer support plays a crucial role in improving outcomes for survivors.

This event aligns with the broader APPIS (Alliance & Partnerships for Patient Innovation & Solutions) initiative, uniting healthcare stakeholders across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa to address challenges in patient care. 

“Gift of Time” not only provided hope and practical support but also showed the importance of community and medical advances in helping breast cancer survivors live well. Survivors left feeling inspired and eager for future events, marking this initiative as a crucial step in Penang’s fight against breast cancer. Through knowledge, support, and community, the women are being given the gift of time—time to heal, time to grow, and most importantly, time to live.