SIBU: A powerful display of compassion and community spirit saw Grolite Group raise more than RM100,000 for children battling cancer after 32 participants shaved their heads during the company’s GoBald 2026 satellite event held at its premises here on Sunday.
The fundraising initiative, held in conjunction with a blood donation campaign, initially collected RM52,328 from public contributions before the company matched the amount ringgit for ringgit, bringing the total to RM104,656.
The event, officiated by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, drew strong support from community leaders, healthcare professionals, corporate partners and members of the public united behind the fight against childhood cancer.
Also present were Grolite Group chairman Datuk Seri Song Tiing Seng; Sibu Hospital director Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu; Public Health Medical specialist Dr Aren Sinedeh Lemin, representing the Ministry of Health; and Grolite Group Business Development manager Sandra Song.
Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) president Mary Kiu Ai Ling described the overwhelming response as a testament to the generosity and compassion of the Sibu community, noting that more than RM50,000 had already been raised even before the event officially began.
“This year’s theme, Growing Hope Together, reflects our belief that every act of support brings hope to children fighting cancer. Through the generosity of individuals and organisations, we can continue ensuring that every child has access to life-saving treatment regardless of their family’s financial circumstances,” she said.
Kiu added that shaving one’s head symbolises far more than a physical transformation.
“It is a meaningful gesture of solidarity that raises awareness and reminds children with cancer that they are not alone in their journey,” she said.
Of the RM104,656 raised, RM40,000 will be channelled towards purchasing medical equipment for Sarawak General Hospital, the state’s main referral centre for paediatric oncology treatment.
The remaining funds will support Ward 27 of the Paediatric Ward at Sibu Hospital, including the purchase of an additional specialised reclining wheelchair, while also helping finance SCCS’ patient support programmes.
These include accommodation, transportation, food assistance, monthly financial aid, specialised medication and other essential services for children undergoing cancer treatment and their families.
According to Kiu, the organisation is currently supporting 11 families from Sibu and surrounding areas this year.
The society, she stated, has set an ambitious target of shaving 300 heads and raising RM1 million through this year’s GoBald campaign to further strengthen support for childhood cancer patients across Sarawak.
“SCCS requires approximately RM4 million annually to sustain its operations, with more than 70 per cent of its expenditure dedicated directly to assisting children and their families. In 2025 alone, the organisation recorded over RM4 million in expenses, including more than RM1 million spent on medical sponsorships.
“Since its establishment in 2001, SCCS has assisted more than 1,800 families across Sarawak by providing financial assistance, temporary accommodation, transportation support, counselling and access to specialised cancer treatment,” Kiu added.
Registration for the Grolite Community GoBald Day 2026 remains open for members of the public wishing to participate as shavees or launch their own fundraising campaigns in support of children with cancer.
