Vale Partners with MAKNA to bring free cancer screenings and awareness to Manjung

Vale, one of the world’s leading mining companies, has partnered with the National Cancer Council of Malaysia (MAKNA) to bring the council’s flagship mobile cancer screening programme to Manjung. The collaboration supports MAKNA’s ongoing commitment to tackling cancer through early detection and raising awareness, a mission MAKNA has championed since its inception. 

The programme, delivered through state-of-the-art mobile screening facilities, provided various communities in Manjung with vital health services directly, while promoting the importance of early cancer detection. It built upon MAKNA’s extensive experience in bringing cancer screening to rural and underprivileged communities, having conducted over 80,000 since the programme’s start in 2011.

A mobile screening truck was stationed at Klinik Desa Ayer Tawar from 26th to 29th August, welcoming the public to access various cancer screening services. Clinical breast examinations and immunochemical faecal occult blood tests were available on a walk-in basis, while mammograms and breast ultrasounds were offered on an appointment basis. In addition, free HPV DNA and pap smear screenings by the Manjung District Health Office were also made available to the public.

The mobile screening trailer was staffed by qualified medical professionals, who guided members of the public on the screening processes as well as provided information on the different types of cancers, related symptoms and recommended checks, to deepen awareness on cancer prevention and detection. Further amplifying MAKNA’s innovative approach to awareness, a mobile exhibition truck equipped with the first-in-Malaysia cancer awareness module was present. This module utilised virtual reality and projection mapping technology to provide an interactive and informative educational experience. 

Mr. Leonardo Paiva, Vale’s Country Manager in Malaysia said, "We are honoured to partner with MAKNA in this strategic advocacy programme that enhances the health and wellbeing of the people living in various communities in Manjung. Health is a fundamental human right, and this initiative removes barriers to early detection, empowering the community to make better, and more informed decisions for their health and wellbeing.”

Pn. Farahida Mohd Farid, General Manager of MAKNA expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, “MAKNA is pleased to have the support of Vale in bringing our cancer screening services to the people of Manjung. This partnership allows us to reach more individuals, especially those who may not have easy, convenient access to healthcare facilities. We humbly welcome other organisations to also support our efforts towards making significant strides in raising awareness and encouraging early detection crucial in the fight against cancer.” 

The cancer advocacy partnership with MAKNA signifies a continuation of Vale’s commitment to fostering inclusive community development in Manjung, attracting over 200 participants across the four-day period. Since it began its operations in Malaysia ten years ago, Vale has invested over RM70 million on strategic social initiatives in the district. “Our social investments are designed to generate lasting positive impact to the society, while providing an impetus for our transformation towards becoming a more sustainable mining company,” Leonardo concluded.

For more information on the initiative and future screenings, do contact Ms Fatyhah from MAKNA at 013-6198489 and Ms Junaidah from Manjung District Health Office at 05-6913355.

This content is provided by Vale Malaysia Minerals.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.

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