Kota Kinabalu: Founder of Sabah Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (SKPR), Datin Lucilla Pang, was endorsed as the first patron of SKPR during the association’s 16th Annual General Meeting (AGM) recently.
It was held at its new headquarters in Taman Seputeh, Luyang, following its relocation from Taman Prima, Penampang. An official opening ceremony of the premises will be announced soon.
According to outgoing president Christy Fe Salazar, the endorsement was seen as a fitting tribute to Pang’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the breast cancer community since the organisation’s establishment in 2010.
Salazar described the appointment as a recognition of Pang’s passion and dedication, which laid the foundation for an organisation that has touched and transformed countless lives across Sabah.
“Datin Lucilla’s vision, compassion, and perseverance have inspired generations of breast cancer survivors, volunteers, and supporters. It was my great honour to propose her appointment as patron, and I am grateful that our members wholeheartedly endorsed this recognition,” she said.
Senior Manager Annie Chin highlighted the centre’s role in supporting breast cancer awareness, survivor programmes, and community outreach.
“There are three rooms upstairs designed for patients and their caretakers who come from the outskirts and need temporary shelter. This place serves as a halfway home for outstation patients undergoing treatment. Many of them travel long distances and face financial burdens, emotional strains, and logistical difficulties.
This centre provides them with a safe and supportive environment throughout their treatment journey,” Annie explained.
She added that the three rooms were adopted by the Lions Club of Api-Api, HM Group, and Gracie Lim respectively.
A donation box has been placed at the premises to allow visitors to contribute toward maintenance. The centre is also seeking financial assistance to complete unfinished renovation work aimed at improving room facilities and enhancing patient comfort.
During the AGM, members reflected on SKPR’s achievements over the past year, including successful awareness campaigns, support initiatives, fundraising activities, and the highly popular PinkRun Tawau, which has become a signature community event attracting strong public support.
Salazar expressed her appreciation to the executive committee, volunteers, staff, sponsors, donors, healthcare partners, and supporters whose dedication has contributed to SKPR’s growth.
She also acknowledged the contributions of Annie Chin and her team in preparing the new premises, as well as sponsors and donors such as the Lions Club of Api Api and Gracie Lim, who supported the centre through room adoption and other contributions.
The AGM also welcomed incoming president Yvonne Dumpangol, who will lead the association in upcoming activities aimed at further strengthening support for the breast cancer survivor community in Sabah.
SKPR reaffirmed its mission to promote breast cancer awareness, support patients and survivors, and empower communities through education, advocacy, and compassionate care.
SKPR new office bearers 2026–2028: President: Yvonne Dumpangol; Deputy President: Suinin John @ Jacqueline; Honorary Secretary: Vanessa Yong Siew Kuen; Honorary Treasurer: Mary Ku Mei Li; Committee Members: Zahara Wong, Datin Tan Lee Na @ Lee Na Toyoi and Daniel Nicholas Yap.
