SIBU: The GoBald 2025 satellite shave event held at Tanahmas Hotel here on Sunday (July 27) saw an inspiring turnout from the local community, with 35 heads shaved and RM24,107 in donations raised — surpassing the initial target of RM10,000 once ongoing fundraising is included.
Each shaved head represents a bold gesture of solidarity with children battling cancer in Sarawak, and the funds raised will go directly to the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) to support children undergoing treatment and their families.
The first two shavees were Irang Ugas, grandfather of a childhood cancer patient, and Dr Wong Chya Wei, a 10-time GoBald participant and top fundraiser — both setting the tone for a meaningful and emotional event.
The event received generous support from local businesses, including a RM5,000 donation from Joco Lico Bridal and RM3,000 from Tanahmas Hotel, demonstrating the strong community spirit in Sibu.
Organised in partnership with long-time supporter Tanahmas Hotel, the event is part of SCCS’ signature campaign — GoBald, the largest and only head-shaving fundraiser in Sarawak.
This year’s theme, “Leave Your Mark”, is a powerful call for individuals to make a visible, lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most.
“The theme is about the courage to stand out for a cause that matters,” said Mary Kiu, President of SCCS.
“Each person who shaved has made their mark — not only on their heads but also on the hearts of the children we serve.
“We are deeply moved by Sibu’s response and thankful to Tanahmas Hotel for hosting this meaningful event,” Kiu added.
According to her, as of June 30, there have been 24 new cases of childhood cancer diagnosed in Sarawak.
SCCS, she revealed, has spent more than RM647,000 to support 44 children and their families with essential medical needs, including specialised medication, medical consumables, diagnostic scans, and lab tests, and anticipates incurring an unprecedented RM1.5 million in medical-related expenses in 2025 alone.
The Society, she said, has also supported 27 families with financial aid exceeding RM43,000, and provided transport subsidies totalling RM41,000 for 37 families to ensure access to care.
The overall GoBald 2025 campaign, she pointed out, aims to raise RM1 million and shave 400 heads in solidarity with children facing cancer.
Since its founding in 2001, SCCS has supported over 1,700 families across Sarawak, thanks to the generosity of donors and partners.
“Members of the public can continue to donate to the campaign after the event. SCCS would also like to express their thanks to salon partner, Danny Hair Academy, and event partner Aaron Soon Photography,” Kiu added.
Organisations interested in hosting a satellite shave or exploring Corporate Social Responsibility opportunities with SCCS can contact 011-39276553 or email em1@sccs.org.my.
