KUCHING: A breast cancer patient’s courage and a doctor’s symbolic act of solidarity took centre stage during a visit by Minister for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah to the Clinical Research Centre at Sarawak General Hospital on Wednesday (March 11).
Fatimah met 41-year-old Juliet Lau, who is currently undergoing chemotherapy for triple negative breast cancer.
Speaking during the visit, Fatimah said Juliet’s journey highlights the importance of awareness and early medical intervention for breast cancer among women of all ages.
“Today I had the privilege of meeting Juliet, a courageous young woman who is facing breast cancer with incredible strength and dignity.”
Fatimah added that Juliet’s experience serves as a reminder that breast cancer can affect women at any stage of life and requires timely detection.
“Her story reminds us that breast cancer can affect women at any age, and early awareness and timely medical attention are critically important.”
During the visit, breast cancer advocate Dr Melissa Lim pledged to shave her head alongside Juliet in a gesture of solidarity and awareness.
The initiative forms part of a fundraising campaign organised with the Sarawak Breast Cancer Support Group to expand breast health education across Sarawak communities.
The campaign aims to raise RM30,000 to fund outreach programmes targeting rural, underserved and marginalised communities where access to information and screening remains limited.
Fatimah said the Sarawak government remains committed to improving women’s health services and ensuring equitable access to healthcare throughout the state.
“As a government, we remain committed to strengthening support for women and families affected by cancer, regardless of whether they live in cities or rural areas.”
She also acknowledged the role of community organisations in providing emotional support and raising awareness among women undergoing treatment and recovery.
Fatimah is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Asia Pacific Organisation for Cancer Prevention General Assembly & Scientific Conference 2026 in Kuching.
Her keynote, titled “Closing the Gaps: Women, Families and Equity in Cancer Care,” will highlight efforts to strengthen awareness, early detection and equitable cancer care access.
