Laugh in the face of cancer at Cancer Research Malaysia’s comedy night

Cancer is a topic that many Malaysians consider taboo, both for the fact that it’s often terminal and that it’s associated with the loss of a loved one.

However, it’s also a topic that needs to be destigmatized in order to understand and play a supportive role in. Coming from this writer’s own experience with his mother, the last thing someone with cancer wants to see are looks of sorrow and pity.

That’s why Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY) is holding their inaugural Comedy Night, Life Is Funny.

Laugh at the disease, but celebrate the patients and survivors

Following the success of Get On Your Feet, a song and dance medley of our favorite Broadway tunes, CRMY switches things around with stand-up comedy this year.

Life is Funny features popular comedians Kavin Jay, Rizal van Geyzel, and Shamaine Othman, with the legendary Dato’ Leonard Tan hosting the event. Held at De Wan 1948 by Chef Wan at The Linc KL, your laughs will be accompanied by the legendary Malaysian chef’s gourmet take on local favorites. Just don’t eat while the jokes are happening unless you wanna spray your date with nasi bunga telang.

More than just a comedy, Life is Funny aims to shed light on the strength, survival, and solidarity that characterize the journey of many people affected by cancer. CRMY believes that laughter, often cited as the best medicine, can play a crucial role in lightening the discourse around the disease and highlighting the fortitude of those who face it.

As such, CRMY’s vision for Life is Funny is more than just an evening of comedy. It’s a celebration of life, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of those touched by the disease.

Proceeds from the show will fund cancer research in Malaysia

The bulk of cancer research and treatments come from western countries. This means the research involves samples and participants that are genetically and environmentally different from us. And yes, CRMY found that cancer cells are racist – more Chinese people get bowel and lung cancer, while more Malays get leukemia, for instance.

This localized level of understanding helps to further the development of treatments, such as their development of an oral cancer vaccine.

So, if you’d like to play a part in their work, click here to get yourself a seat at Life is Funny – donation tiers start from RM300. Otherwise you can also donate to them directly here.

“Through laughter and support, we can make a significant impact in the fight against this disease. Your participation and contributions are vital in our mission to empower research and ultimately save lives”

– Andy Khoo, Chief Executive Officer of CRMY.