BINTULU: Bintulu will soon be filled with colour and hope as the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) brings its signature Balloon Maze to the town for the very first time.
Timed with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the 2025 edition carries the inspiring theme “Aqil Beats Cancer,” highlighting stories of resilience and the importance of early awareness.
The maze will be open to the public from Sept 26 to 28 from 10am to 10pm daily, at The Spring Shopping Mall, Bintulu. Entrance is free of charge, and all are welcome to join.
Inspired by the true story of Aqil, a young boy from Miri diagnosed with Pre-B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at only two years old, the maze takes visitors through his journey as a childhood cancer patient together with his family navigating the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, remission, and survivorship.
“Through Aqil Beats Cancer, we want to bring hope, awareness, and understanding to the community,” said SCCS president Mary Kiu Ai Ling.
“Childhood cancer is often misunderstood, but with greater awareness, early detection, and community support, more children can have the chance to survive and thrive.
“We invite everyone in Bintulu and beyond to walk through the maze, learn more, and stand with children and families fighting cancer.”
Using vibrant life-sized balloon sculptures, the maze not only tells Aqil’s story but also helps educate the public on the early signs and symptoms of childhood cancer, while highlighting the essential support services SCCS provides to families across Sarawak, such as medical aid, accommodation, emotional support, and advocacy.
In addition to the maze, visitors can look forward to a variety of family-friendly activities. These include an Awareness Corner with fun and educational games, arts and crafts stations where proceeds will be donated to SCCS, and a range of balloon sculptures for sale, all designed to engage the community while supporting children with cancer.
“This marks SCCS’ fifth balloon maze event, with each edition dedicated to a different child’s story and hosted in different parts of Sarawak.
“The initiative began in 2018 with ‘Ali Beats Cancer’ in Kuching, followed by ‘Anna Beats Cancer’ in 2019, ‘Aisyah Beats Cancer’ in Miri in 2023, and ‘Samuel Beats Cancer’ in Sibu in 2024,” Kiu added.
The event is made possible with the support of The Spring Shopping Mall, Bintulu as the venue sponsor, alongside dedicated volunteers, corporate partners, and the community.
