Vale, one of the world’s leading mining companies, is partnering with the National Cancer Council of Malaysia (MAKNA) to bring the council’s flagship mobile cancer screening programme to Manjung. The collaboration support’s 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, is expected to provide various communities in Manjung with vital health services directly, while promoting the importance of early cancer detection. It builds 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.

Starting today to 29th August, a mobile screening truck will be stationed at Klinik Desa Ayer Tawar from 9am to 5pm, welcoming the public to access various cancer screening services. Clinical breast examinations and immunochemical faecal occult blood tests are available on a walk-in basis, while mammograms and breast ultrasounds are offered on an appointment basis. In addition, free HPV DNA and pap smear screenings by the Manjung District Health Office are also available to the public.

The mobile screening trailer will be staffed by qualified medical professionals, who will guide members of the public on the screening processes as well as provide 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 will be present. This module utilises 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 and is expected to attract 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.

Twitter