Latest news with #GoBald
Borneo Post
2 days ago
- Health
- Borneo Post
Over RM24,000 raised at GoBald 2025 satellite event in Sibu
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
Borneo Post
02-07-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
SCCS aims for RM1 mln and 400 shaves in GoBald 2025
A participant shaved his head in solidarity with children battling cancer at a recent GoBald event in Kuching. KUCHING (July 2): The Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS) aims to raise RM1 million and have 400 individuals shave their heads through its GoBald event this year. In a press release, SCCs said it records between 50 to 70 new childhood cancer cases in the state each year. SCCS explained it requires approximately RM2 million annually to sustain its services, with over 70 per cent of funds directly benefiting affected children through medical sponsorships, financial aid, and specialised treatment. 'In 2024, SCCS incurred RM2.9 million in expenses, a 43 per cent increase from the previous year, largely due to critical medical aid support exceeding RM500,000. 'As of May this year, SCCS has already spent approximately RM590,000 to support 33 children and their families with essential medical needs, including specialised medication, consumables, laboratory tests, and diagnostic scans. This includes over RM496,000 in support of five-year-old Ariyana from Miri, who is battling neuroblastoma and recently underwent a bone marrow transplant and immunotherapy,' said SCCS. According to SCCS, an estimated eight more children will benefit from specialised drugs sponsored by the organisation. Amongst them are two more young patients: a five-year-old boy from Serian and a one-year-old girl from Kuching — both scheduled to undergo immunotherapy in the second half of the year. SCCS said these advanced treatments offer renewed hope of improving their treatment journeys and significantly increasing their chances of survival. 'SCCS is projected to incur an unprecedented RM1.5 million in medical-related expenses in 2025 alone,'it added. SCCS also shared this year's GoBald theme, 'Leave Your Mark', is a powerful call to action and an invitation for individuals to make a lasting impact. 'Funds raised will go toward providing critical medical aid, psychosocial support, and financial assistance to young cancer patients across Sarawak,' it added. On a related matter, SCCS said a satellite shave hosted by long-time supporter Tanahmas Hotel, initially scheduled for July 6, has now been postponed to July 27. It explained that the rescheduling aims to allow more time for the Sibu community to participate and show their support for this meaningful cause. 'Through the event, Tanahmas Hotel hopes to raise RM10,000 in support of SCCS's services for children and families affected by childhood cancer,' it added. GoBald lead Sarawak Children's Cancer Society
The Star
24-06-2025
- Health
- The Star
Over RM77,000 raised in Miri as 38 go bald for sick children
GoBald participants (seated) about to have their hair shaved off at Permaisuri Imperial City Mall. Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS) has raised RM77,157 during the first leg of its 'GoBald 2025' campaign. The annual awareness and fundraising campaign supports children and families battling childhood cancer. During the first leg held at Permaisuri Imperial City Mall in Miri, 38 participants shaved their heads in solidarity with child patients and to raise funds for them. 'The theme for GoBald this year is 'Leave Your Mark', an invitation for everyone to be part of something bigger. 'GoBald is more than just a fundraiser –it's a movement of hope, courage and community. 'Every shaved head sends a powerful message that our children do not walk this journey alone,' said SCCS president Mary Kiu Ai Ling. She expressed gratitude to each participant, donor and event partner who continued to support the society's mission to improve the lives of children with cancer. Since its launch in March, GoBald 2025 has seen a steady rise in registrations. To date, around 150 participants from across Malaysia have joined the campaign, raising over RM390,000 from more than 1,200 donors. 'In 2024, GoBald raised over RM781,000 with more than 290 participants shaving their heads,' said Kiu. 'This year, SCCS is aiming higher – with a fundraising target of RM1mil and a goal of recruiting at least 400 shaves,' she added. The organisation's annual operating cost exceeds RM2mil, with over 70% of funds directly supporting medical and financial aid, accommodation, emotional care and other essential services. In 2024 alone, SCCS recorded RM2.9mil in total expenses, with medical sponsorships exceeding RM500,000 – a notable rise. Visit or follow @sccsmy on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for updates.
Borneo Post
22-06-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
GoBald 2025 raises over RM450,000 in support of children with cancer
A group photo taken during GoBald 2025. KUCHING (June 22): The 17th edition of GoBald, Sarawak's largest head-shaving fundraiser, has raised more than RM450,000 from over 1,500 donors across Malaysia. As of June 2025, over 180 individuals have registered for the campaign, with at least 164 pledging to shave their heads, including participants from various states and federal territories. Since its launch in 2009, GoBald has raised over RM13 million with the support of more than 11,000 participants nationwide. Organised annually by the Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS), this year's campaign coincided with Cancer Survivors Month. In Kuching alone, over RM325,000 was raised, with 95 participants shaving their heads at AEON Mall Kuching Central or at local salon partners. SCCS President Mary Kiu highlighted that nearly RM500,000 was spent this year on medical treatment for just one child, underscoring the growing needs of families supported by the organisation. 'Whether you're shaving your head, donating, volunteering, or simply showing up to support – you're making a difference,' she said. 'To those of you who are joining us for the very first time – welcome! And to those who have never heard of GoBald, I just want to say that it's more than just shaving your hair. 'It's a bold statement of love, solidarity, and support for children who are going through cancer treatment – many of whom lose their hair as a result. By going bald, we show them they are not alone, and we stand with them in their fight. 'It is through initiatives like GoBald that have enabled SCCS to support over 1,700 families since our establishment in 2001,' she added. Among the participants for the first shave was 16-year-old Daniel Kueh, who was diagnosed with T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (T-ALL) in 2023 at just 14. Kueh took part in the first shave alongside five family members – his parents, brother, aunt, and grandaunt. In 2024, SCCS supported Kueh's treatment costs, including over RM130,000 for a stem cell transplant and lab tests at both Sarawak General Hospital and Ampang Hospital. His case contributed to SCCS's total medical aid expenses of over RM762,000 for the year. Kueh's family has been passionate advocates for SCCS ever since, actively participating in awareness and fundraising efforts. 'When I had cancer, SCCS helped sponsor part of my treatment through GoBald, and that support meant so much to me. Now, I want to go bald too — to help other kids going through cancer so they can continue their chemotherapy and treatment,' shared Kueh. Three representatives from Ibraco Berhad, the main sponsor of GoBald 2025, were the second batch of shavees after Kueh and his family. As the signature awareness and fundraising campaign for SCCS, all donations raised from GoBald contribute about 20 to 30 per cent of SCCS's total expenditure over RM2 million every year. Among the essential support services provided by SCCS are medical and financial aid to families in need; accommodation, food, and transportation for rural families under active treatment at its Kuching Halfway Home; organising counselling sessions and recreational activities; sponsoring medical equipment not provided in government hospitals; and providing care packs and tokens of love to help new patients adapt to life in the ward. SCCS extended heartfelt thanks to its sponsors and partners, including Ibraco Berhad, Ray's Salon, Maison Monica Hair & Beauty Academy, Fion Hair Studio, Paul & Jennifer, Danny Hair Academy, T2H Eternity Saloon, Paradise Borneo, Aaron Soon Photography, DK Photography, Village Sound, AEON Mall Kuching Central, and The Imperial Mall Miri. Registration for GoBald satellite shaves is still open to businesses, organisations, and corporations looking to support Sarawak's childhood cancer community through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. Interested organisations can contact SCCS at 082-686276 or email [email protected] . cancer fund raising GoBald lead Sarawak Children's Cancer Society
Borneo Post
15-06-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Lau: First-time participation in GoBald motivated by past experiences
Lorna shaves Lau's head. SIBU (June 16): This year's GoBald 2025 campaign holds a special meaning for Councillor Kevin Lau, who decided to have his head shaved for the first time yesterday in support for children suffering from cancer. The Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) Bawang Assan branch chairman described his participation during a private event here as an emotional one closely related to past experiences with young cancer patients. 'During my time serving as Sibu Hospital Board of Visitors chairman, I saw firsthand the difficulties faced by families of children with cancer. At that time, I often met with the parents of children undergoing treatment. 'The hospital had also requested financial assistance from us, especially to cover the cost of transporting patients from Sibu to Kuching or Kuala Lumpur for immediate treatment,' he said. Recalling the difficulties faced by the families of patients, Lau said this included how their children had to undergo intensive treatment and the emotional burden borne by their parents. He added that the experience left a deep impression on him that remains in his memory to this day. 'I sympathise with them. Today, on Father's Day, I feel a deeper connection with all these parents,' he said. The private event, held in conjunction with Father's Day, saw Lau's head shaved by Sarawak Children's Cancer Society (SCCS) honorary advisor Datin Patinggi Puan Sri Datuk Wira Lorna Enan Muloon Chan. He lauded SCCS for successfully organising GoBald and other programmes every year to raise awareness on childhood cancer and encourage people to donate for a good cause. 'GoBald is not just symbolic, but a message of hope for those directly involved. This event is not only to raise awareness, but also to give hope to parents and strength to the children. 'They face various challenges during treatment and need high spirits. With continued support, adequate funds and medical care, they can recover and lead normal lives,' he said. He highlighted that children undergoing cancer treatment are often isolated from their peers and unable to lead normal lives. 'That is why I find this experience a very meaningful one, and I really hope that GoBald continues to receive strong support from all parties this year.' Lau also praised the hard work of SCCS and called on more individuals and parents to join their effort to raise awareness on childhood cancer. 'I know there are many people and parents out there who are very concerned about the plight of these children. I hope we can all continue to work together to raise awareness and bring hope to their lives,' he said. Meanwhile, Lorna said the GoBald campaign has proven effective in raising public awareness. 'We work with certain individuals who usually keep their hair short. When they let it grow for a year and then shave it off, people start asking is they are okay or if they are sick. 'This is because not everyone knows the real reason. Maybe they think it's just a fashion. But when they know the reason, it indirectly raises awareness. 'So, when people see Kevin, they will know that he is one individual who has played a significant role in raising awareness about childhood cancer,' she said. cancer patient community fund raising GoBald Kevin Lau lead
