The National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing education, care and support to people affected by cancer, held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Cancer Support Centre in Taman Nusantara Prima, Gelang Patah, Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Phase two of a three-phase, three-year cancer control strategy for Johor (2024–2026) by NCSM is being implemented at this centre. This project, which is backed by the Malaysian Ministry of Health, is to address cancer-related concerns and create a framework for accessible, long-lasting cancer support for Johor residents. In order to meet the urgent demand for greater access to cancer care in Johor, this centre will provide early detection and cancer screening services at a reduced cost.
The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Hj Ahmad Nazir bin Hj Mohd Nasir, Johor Bahru District Officer. The centre will be equipped with a team of healthcare professionals and the necessary equipment to provide cancer screening and early detection services at subsidised rates of up to 80% for the public. Services will be provided completely free of charge for underprivileged families.
Also present at the event were Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Datuk Pandak, Kota Iskandar ADUN, Marina Ibrahim, Skudai ADUN and Amira Aisya, Puteri Wangsa ADUN.
“This centre represents a vital investment in the health and well-being of the people of Johor. By promoting early detection and prevention, we are not only saving lives but also fostering a healthier and more productive workforce, which is crucial for the state’s economic growth,” said Liew.
A recent National Cancer Registry Report (2017-2021) also shows an alarming increase in late-stage cancer detections across Malaysia, with 65.3% of cases identified at advanced stages 3 or 41. These statistics, coupled with Johor’s high rates of breast, colorectal, and other cancers, underscore the critical need for enhanced awareness, early detection, and access to healthcare resources.
The estimated economic impact of cancer on Johor has been significant, totalling RM188.94 million. Additionally, a 2017 joint report from the MOH and the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated the annual productivity loss due to cancer at RM1.34 billion, equivalent to 0.10% of Malaysia’s GDP. These figures, which include absenteeism, reduced productivity (presenteeism), and early death, suggest that Johor’s economic losses could escalate without concerted early detection and prevention efforts.
Assoc. Prof. Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, Managing Director of NCSM said, “While we are proud to offer subsidised screenings, our ultimate goal is prevention. NCSM is dedicated to working hand-in-hand with the community, healthcare providers, and the government to build a stronger, more resilient health ecosystem in Johor, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We want to create a future where fewer people in Johor hear the words ‘you have cancer.”
Past NCSM’s initiatives in Johor include collaboration with Big Caring Group – Last October, NCSM partnered with Big Caring Group on their “Ribbon of Hope” initiative, a cancer support programme offered counselling, affordable medications, rehabilitation resources and early detection services. This collaboration included a joint health screening initiative in Johor, providing HPV vaccinations, clinical breast examinations and other vital services. The partnership also focused on raising public awareness about cancer prevention and screening through joint initiatives.
In June this year, NCSM collaborated with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) to launch “Leaving No One Behind”, a Johor state-level HPV immunisation programme. This initiative focused on raising awareness and providing free HPV vaccinations to students, staff, and the local community to prevent cervical cancer. The programme was launched by Yang Amat Mulia Che’ Puan Mahkota Khaleeda Johor at UTM’s Raja Zarith Sofiah Library, highlighting the importance of this initiative in protecting women’s health. To date, over 23,000 Johoreans have benefitted from this campaign.
Meanwhile, the Relay for Life Malaysia 2025 (RFL) will be held in 2 new locations in addition to Kuala Lumpur, Melaka and Perak. NCSM will be expanding the RFL to Johor next year to further increase awareness in the state by gathering communities under one sky to show solidarity in the fight against cancer.
For more information, visit NCSM’s website www.cancer.org.my or call 1-800-88-1000. Stay updated on the latest news and events by following NCSM on social media – National Cancer Society Malaysia (Facebook) and nationalcancersocietymy (Instagram).
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Reference:
- Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report, 2017-2021
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