BINTULU: The Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) today launched the ‘Aqil Beats Cancer Balloon Maze’ at The Spring Shopping Mall here in conjunction with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Running from September 26 to 28, the colourful, life-sized installation is free to the public and aims to both captivate visitors and spotlight the resilience of young cancer warriors.
“Every balloon in this maze tells a story of fear, hope, and courage. Aqil’s journey reminds us why awareness is so important: early recognition of symptoms can save lives,” said SCCS’ President, Mary Kiu.
“By walking through this maze, the public not only learns about cancer but also steps into the reality faced by children and families every day. Together, we can make their journey less daunting through compassion, awareness, and support.”
At the centre of the maze is the moving story of Aqil, a spirited boy diagnosed in 2024 with Pre-B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia when he was only two years old.
Through a series of immersive balloon sculptures, visitors are guided along Aqil’s journey from the earliest signs of illness and the shock of diagnosis, through rounds of treatment, and finally toward recovery and survivorship.
The launch ceremony was officiated by Steven Kong as the special function officer representing Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
Key guests included Bintulu Lumber Development Sdn Bhd’s Director, Adeline Lau Kor See, the main event sponsor; Ivy Chai, Assistant Manager of Marketing – Events and Promotions at The Spring Bintulu, the venue sponsor; SCCS Honorary Adviser, Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon Chan; and SCCS Honorary Secretary, Wilin Main.
KUMUS Sdn Bhd also lent support as an event partner.
“This year marks the fifth edition of SCCS’s balloon maze series, each dedicated to a child’s unique journey.
“The initiative began in 2018 with All Beats Cancer in Kuching and has since honoured Anna (2019), Aisyah (2023 in Miri), and Samuel (2024 in Sibu),” Kiu said.
Beyond awareness, the event underscores SCCS’s comprehensive support for more than 150 families annually ranging from financial aid and medical assistance to emotional care ensuring that every child receives the best possible treatment and a brighter future.
The ‘Aqil Beats Cancer Balloon Maze’ will remain open daily until Sunday (September 28) at The Spring Bintulu.
For details or to support SCCS, visit www.sccs.org.my.
