KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor lauded efforts by Sabah Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (SKPR) to establish The Pink Haven, a centre that supports breast cancer patients and caregivers during specialised treatment.
“For patients travelling from rural communities and other parts of Sabah to Kota Kinabalu for treatment, the journey can be physically exhausting, emotionally difficult and financially draining.
“Patients and caregivers may have to spend time away from their homes and families while coping with the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis.
“It is a ‘home away from home’ that helps ease the burden of travelling for care. More than a building, it offers dignity, comfort and the reassurance that no one has to face this journey alone,” he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of The Pink Haven by SKPR at its premises in Taman Seputeh, Jalan Damai, here, Saturday.
Assistant Minister of Women, Health and Community Wellbeing, Datuk Rina Jainal delivered the Chief Minister’s speech.
Also present were Mutiara GRS (Pertubuhan Muafakat Titipan Amal Isteri Wakil Rakyat, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah) Treasurer Datin Tracy Tan Mui Jee, representing the Chief Minister’s wife Datin Seri Juliah Salag, who is also Chairperson of Mutiara GRS, Sabah Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (SPKR) President Yvonne Dumpangol, its patron and founder Datin Lucilla Pang and the SPKR executive committee.
Hajiji said the State Government recognised the value of initiatives such as The Pink Haven and the importance of working with healthcare institutions, community organisations, donors and volunteers to support people affected by cancer.
He was glad to see that the RM300,000 funding he approved two years ago has helped bring this initiative into operation and is being put to good use.
Since its establishment in 2010, he said the SKPR has raised breast cancer awareness, supported patients and survivors, and helped families and communities to better understand the importance of standing alongside those affected.
“With The Pink Haven, SKPR takes its work a step further by turning compassion into practical support,” he said.
Hajiji also put on record his recognition of the vision of SKPR’s Patron and Founder, Datin Lucilla Pang, whose experience as a breast cancer survivor helped inspire the establishment of SKPR.
“Let us continue to work together, government, healthcare providers, community organisations, businesses and the public, to ensure that those affected receive not only medical care, but also the practical and emotional support they need.
“May The Pink Haven be a lasting home of hope, healing and support. May it remind us that compassion is most powerful when put into action. I wish SKPR every success in its mission,” he said.
