CYBERJAYA, Feb 19 – The Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM) is the latest entity to contribute to a multi-sectoral human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination drive to vaccinate underprivileged girls and women across all 222 parliamentary constituencies.
LIAM and its 16 members recently donated RM3 million to the National Cancer Society Malaysia’s (NCSM) “Leaving No One Behind: Eliminating Cervical Cancer in Malaysia” HPV vaccination programme.
LIAM’s donation covers administrative costs involved in the distribution of 300,000 HPV vaccine doses donated by the Malaysian chapter of global health care company MSD earlier in January for NCSM’s vaccination programme.
LIAM’s latest financial contribution, made in conjunction with the association’s 50th anniversary, is equivalent to the cost of 100,000 doses of the HPV vaccine that prevents cervical cancer.
“This pledge embodies the collective spirit of civil society to eliminate cervical cancer, protecting 100,000 women and girls,” NCSM president Dr Saunthari Somasundram said in a statement last Saturday at the national celebration of World Cancer Day 2024 at the University of Cyberjaya.
LIAM president Raymond Lew said the initiative aims to support the Malaysian health care system by mitigating the risk of cervical cancer, which ranks as the third most prevalent cancer among women in Malaysia.
“By promoting awareness about HPV and related cancers, we underscore the importance of preventive measures and early detection to potentially save lives,” Lew said.
The programme currently being rolled out across the country is made possible by NCSM working closely with Members of Parliament, government agencies, and local non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to identify women and teenagers from underprivileged, infirm, and disabled communities who have not yet received the HPV vaccine in each parliamentary constituency.
LIAM’s financial pledge was witnessed by Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad at the “Together We Can Do Better”-themed World Cancer Day 2024 event.
“Today’s gathering emphasises the collective strength of Malaysia’s cancer community. The government stands resolute in supporting innovative partnerships and initiatives that prioritise equitable access to cancer care for every Malaysian,” Dzulkefly said.
Axios International, an organisation that provides equitable access to quality care and treatment for patients in need, has pledged to establish a joint fund with NCSM called “Axios-NCSM Cancer Fund” that aims to reduce the burden on cancer patients to get medicines.
NCSM also signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Cyberjaya to enhance collaboration in cancer research and health care innovation.
“This partnership with the University of Cyberjaya will open new avenues for research and innovation, volunteer opportunities, and health care professional training, bringing tangible benefits to countless cancer patients in the years to come,” NCSM’s Dr Saunthari said.
University of Cyberjaya pro chancellor Dr R. Palan said the university is committed to partnering with NCSM to accelerate research and innovation in cancer care. “We stand united in the fight against this formidable disease.”
In a display of solidarity, representatives from over 20 NGOs participated in a pledging ceremony, promising specific initiatives focused on improving cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and support services.
