Over RM24,000 raised at GoBald 2025 satellite event in Sibu

Borneo Post

2 days ago

Dr Wong gets his head shaved during the GoBald 2025 satellite event in Sibu.
SIBU (July 27): Over RM24,000 was raised during the GoBald 2025 satellite event at Tanahmas Hotel here today, where a total of 35 heads were shaved in connection with this signature campaign of Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS).
In a press statement, the organisation said the amount surpassed the initial target of RM10,000.
'Each shaved head represents a bold gesture of solidarity with children battling cancer in Sarawak.
'All proceeds will go directly to the SCCS to support children undergoing treatment and their families.
'The first two to have their heads shaved were Irang Ugas grandfather of a childhood cancer patient; and Dr Wong Chya Wei, a 10-time GoBald participant and a top fundraiser — both setting the tone for a meaningful and emotional event,' said the society.
It added that the event received generous support from local businesses, including a RM5,000 donation from Joco Lico Bridal and RM3,000 from Tanahmas Hotel.
Dr Wong is a regular volunteer of the GoBald campaign. – Photo by Peter Boon
The satellite event was part of SCCS' signature GoBald campaign, touted as the largest and only head-shaving fundraiser in Sarawak.
'This year's theme, 'Leave Your Mark', is about the courage to stand out for a cause that matters,' said SCCS president Mary Kiu.
'Each person who shaved today, made their mark – not only on their heads, but also on the hearts of the children whom we serve.
'We're deeply moved by Sibu's response and thankful to Tanahmas Hotel for hosting this meaningful event.'
As of June 30, 2025, there have been 24 new cases of childhood cancer diagnosed in Sarawak.
SCCS has spent more than RM647,000 to support 44 children and their families with essential medical needs, including specialised medication, medical consumables, diagnostic scans, as well as laboratory tests, and anticipates incurring an unprecedented RM1.5 million in medical-related expenses in this year alone.
Overall, the GoBald 2025 campaign 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.
When met during the event, Dr Wong said his first GoBald participation was in 2016.
SCCS events and marketing manager Genevieve Tan (second left) holds the mock cheque for RM3,000, contributed to the SCCS by Tanahmas Hotel, which is represented in the photo-call by (from left) Vincent Wong, Yulia Sepiani Pang and Ellis Chew.
'I have been taking part since, even during the Covid-19 pandemic. Of course, during the pandemic, we could not gather in big numbers.
'So, what we did was going individually to the appointed hair saloon, and then got shaved, and after that, uploaded our photos (on the assigned social media).
'I found the experience quite mind-engaging, as it made us realise that there are many unfortunate children who are facing challenges.
'They not only endure the mental strain of the illness itself, bas their families have to manage significant expenses.
'I understand that cancer treatment is not cheap, so we're doing whatever we can to support them.
'So I think that's one of the important stimulants that keeps me going, and I hope that as long as I have hair, I would be able to continue with this,' said Dr Wong.
Organisations interested in hosting a satellite shave or exploring corporate social responsibility (CSR) opportunities with SCCS can call 011-3927 6553, or connect via [email protected] . charity Dr Wong Chya Wei GoBald Sarawak Children's Cancer Society