KOTA BAHRU, Nov 14: Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY), the nation’s leading independent cancer research organisation, signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently with Hospital Raja Perempuan Zainab II (HRPZ II) to establish its internationally-acclaimed Patient Navigation Programme (PNP) in Kelantan, marking a significant advancement in breast cancer care for the East Coast region.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by Dato’ Dr Zaini Hussin, Kelantan State Health Director; Dr Izamin Idris, Director of HRPZ II; Dato’ Dr Imi Sairi Abdul Hadi, Senior Consultant in Breast and Endocrine Surgery at HRPZ II, Chief Surgeon for Breast Surgery Malaysia, and Head of Patient Navigation for the Ministry of Health, and several of the hospital leaders, a press statement from CRMY said.
CRMY was represented by its Chief Scientific Officer and pioneer scientist Professor Dr Cheong Sok Ching, and Dr Jananezwary Kanapathy, a behavioural health psychologist who heads the Community Outreach Unit.
In his speech, Dato’ Dr Zaini Hussin emphasised the importance of a smooth journey for a breast cancer patient – from noticing suspicious signs to diagnosis and the completion of treatment. He assured that all breast cancer patients in HRPZ II are supported holistically through the delivery of patient-centred care.
He added, “Having a Pink Ribbon Centre, a one-stop breast cancer care centre, integrated with PNP ensures that each patient is systematically guided by a competent team and their challenges addressed proactively so they can complete their treatment.”
“This partnership represents a crucial step in our mission to ensure equitable access to cancer care across Malaysia,” said Professor Dr Cheong Sok Ching, CRMY’s Chief Scientific Officer. “Our PNP, which was recently cited by World Health Organisation as exemplary breast cancer care management, has demonstrated remarkable success in achieving 98% treatment adherence rate, and expediting diagnosis, particularly among underprivileged patients.”
PNP at HRPZ II will introduce a nurse navigator and a community navigator from CRMY, and establish a specialised consultation facility, supported by streamlined processes for timely diagnosis and treatment. This development is particularly significant for Kelantan’s underserved communities, who often face multiple barriers to accessing cancer care.
CRMY also announced plans to expand PNP to three additional government hospitals in Kuala Lumpur, Perak, and Kedah later this month, reinforcing its commitment to support the Ministry of Health in enhancing cancer care accessibility nationwide. This expansion builds upon CRMY’s successful implementation of PNP in four major hospitals: Hospital Sultan Ampuan Rahimah in Klang, Hospital Queen Elizabeth II in Kota Kinabalu, Hospital Umum Sarawak in Kuching, and Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar in Seremban. The programme has significantly improved patient outcomes through its innovative approach to healthcare delivery.
“Our commitment to pioneering research that translates into impactful healthcare initiatives aligns with our mission to make a meaningful difference in cancer care in Malaysia,” added Professor Dr. Cheong. “The support from donors, especially Yayasan PETRONAS and Yayasan Sime Darby, reflects the trust that our partners place in our ability to drive positive change for cancer patients.”
According to the latest National Cancer Registry Report, breast cancer remains a major threat to women in the country, with statistics showing an incidence rate of 38.9 per 100,000 women from 2017 to 2021. On 5 October, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof announced plans to expand Malaysia’s network of cancer centres to improve access to quality cancer treatment nationwide, addressing the increasing number of reported cases.
Expanding Pink Ribbon Centres, especially within government hospitals, will help ensure that patients receive timely, life-saving treatments without a heavy financial burden. With strong government support and adequate funding, these centres can become an essential part of Malaysia’s healthcare system. Underserved B40 patients will benefit from shorter waiting times, improved access to early cancer detection, and a robust support network. This investment in cancer care infrastructure not only meets the immediate needs of patients but also establishes a lasting foundation for future generations, ensuring accessible, high-quality cancer treatment for all Malaysians.
As a leading cancer research organisation, CRMY is committed to advancing equitable and accessible cancer care, enhancing the quality of life for countless Malaysians, and building a Future Free from the Fear of Cancer.
–WE