KOTA KINABALU — Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor has commended Sabah Kinabalu Pink Ribbon (SKPR) for establishing The Pink Haven, a support centre providing accommodation and assistance to breast cancer patients and their caregivers undergoing specialised treatment.
He said the centre would provide a “home away from home” for patients travelling from rural communities and other parts of Sabah to Kota Kinabalu, easing the physical, emotional and financial burdens associated with 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.
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Assistant Minister of Women, Health and Community Wellbeing Datuk Rina Jainal at the opening ceremony of The Pink Haven here today.
He said the state government recognised the importance of initiatives such as The Pink Haven and collaboration with healthcare institutions, community organisations, donors and volunteers in supporting people affected by cancer.
He also expressed satisfaction that the RM300,000 allocation he approved two years ago had helped bring the initiative to fruition and was being put to good use.
Hajiji said SKPR, established in 2010, had played an important role in raising breast cancer awareness, supporting patients and survivors, and encouraging families and communities to stand alongside those affected by the disease.
“With The Pink Haven, SKPR takes its work a step further by turning compassion into practical support,” he said.
He also acknowledged the vision of SKPR founder and patron Datin Lucilla Pang, whose experience as a breast cancer survivor had inspired the establishment of the organisation.
Hajiji called for continued cooperation among the government, healthcare providers, community organisations, businesses and the public to ensure cancer patients received not only medical treatment but also the practical and emotional support they needed.
“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.
