SIBU: The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan Chief, Councillor Kevin Lau Kor Jie, shaved his head today as part of the ‘Go Bald’ campaign organised by the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS).
It marked not only his personal commitment to the cause but also highlighted his deep connection to children battling cancer.
Lau expressed his sincere gratitude to SCCS Honorary Adviser, Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon Chan, and SCCS for the opportunity to be part of what he described as a memorable and meaningful initiative.
Coinciding with Father’s Day, the event held even greater significance for Lau.
“Today reminds us of the strength of these parents.
“By supporting ‘Go Bald’, we’re not just raising funds; we’re giving these children and their families hope and strength to carry on,” he said when met by reporters after shaving his head at a hotel here today.
Reflecting on his past involvement with healthcare-related community work, Lau shared that his passion for the cause stemmed from his time as Chairman of the Board of Visitors here several years ago.
During his tenure, he had first-hand encounters with the struggles faced by families of young cancer patients, particularly those who had to travel long distances often from Sibu to Kuching or Kuala Lumpur for treatment.
“I remember the many requests from Sibu Hospital to help with funding for transportation. Meeting the parents and hearing their stories left a deep impact on me.
“The emotional toll these families endure is immense. The children face the physical pain of treatment, and the parents bear the emotional burden of watching their little ones suffer,” he said.
When asked whether he had any regrets about shaving his head, Lau smiled and admitted it was daunting at first and indeed nerve-wracking.
“But when you’ve seen what these children go through, it gives you the courage to do something small, yet powerful,” he added.
Explaining why he chose to join the ‘Go Bald’ campaign this year, Lau said the opportunity came through his meeting with Lorna.
“Although I supported healthcare in the past, this is my first direct involvement with SCCS. I believe it’s never too late to join a good cause,” he said.
When asked if he would participate again in the future, Lau said he would ‘definitely consider it’ but hoped that others would also step forward.
“It’s about more than just me. It’s about inspiring the next generation to have the same courage, to step up and support these children in whatever way they can,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lorna said that the ‘Go Bald’ campaign has proven to be effective in raising awareness.
“We do work with certain people who keep their hair short all the time. Let’s say they grow it out for a year, and then shave it – people start asking, ‘Are you okay?’ or ‘Are you unwell?’ Because not everyone knows the reason; maybe they think it’s just fashion.
“But once they talk to you, that’s already raising awareness. So when people see Lau, yes, Lau is one of those people in Sibu or Sarawak driving awareness for children with cancer,” she said.
She expressed her gratitude to Lau for bravely taking on the challenge and going through this experience alongside the parents of children with cancer, who do the same for their children.
