Cycling for breast cancer awareness
700 cycle 25km in Kuala Lumpur
TEH ATHIRA YUSOF
KUALA LUMPUR Tehathira.yusof@nst.com.my
Rz Bintang and Dataran Merdeka.
The event is a collaboration between New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd (NSTP) and Wacoal Malaysia for the fifth consecutive year to promote breast cancer awareness.
Wacoal Malaysia executive director Takashi Watanabe, who launched the event, said the company had committed to breast cancer prevention for the past fifteen years.
“Breast cancer is still a major problem for women in Malaysia, with approximately one in 19 being at risk of developing the disease in her lifetime. We are honoured to partner with NSTP again in promoting awareness of breast cancer to the public.”
NSTP chief commercial officer Alfian Abu Talib said the event had seen increased participation over the past five years.
Alfian said he was glad that NSTP, as a media company, could play its part in bringing in the crowd and spreading awareness of breast cancer.
He said he hoped similar events would be held in other states in the future.
“Social movements have been gaining traction through media companies like us and causes can become more prevalent with support from the community.”
group editor Yushaimi Maulud Yahya said the event, while fun in nature, carried a serious message.
“Cancer is a serious issue. Awareness is healthy but it needs to be heightened and it should not stop after this event.
“The fun ride has continued to garner extremely healthy participation and is a reflection of the commitment of NSTP, Wacoal Malaysia and all parties involved to the cause. Kudos to everyone.”
Moo Huey Ming, 51, said she had not missed a Wacoal Pink Ribbon Fun Ride event since 2015 as she believed in the cause.
“The reason I joined was because I was supporting the organisers in 2015. Then, my friends joined the event as they got to exercise while supporting a great cause.
“From then on, I have not missed any event and came back every year with more friends. This year, there are 15 of us.”
First-time participant Frida Soarez, 41, who supports cancer awareness campaigns, said it was one of the best ways to raise awareness that cancer survivors needed to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
“I came here with my family. I have been participating in events like this because I believe awareness is key in helping cancer patients pull through,” said the mother of two.