The heavy downpour early Sunday morning did not dampen the spirits of over 1,000 people who gathered to commemorate World Cancer Day 2025 under the transformative theme, “United by Unique”, at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien.
Organised by The Brunei Cancer Centre (TBCC) and Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC), the momentous event was attended by the guest of honour, Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Hj Mohd Isham Bin Hj Jaafar, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors of JPMC.
Also in attendance were Cabinet ministers, including the Second Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof, and the Minister of Development, Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda Bin Haji Abdul Rashid. Deputy Ministers present included the Deputy Minister (Security and Law) at the Prime Minister’s Office, Dato Seri Paduka Haji Sufian bin Haji Sabtu, and the Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (Fiscal), Pengiran Datin Seri Paduka Hajah Zety Sufina binti Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Sani, who is also the Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of JPMC.
“United by Unique” is the theme for World Cancer Day’s campaign spanning from 2025 to 2027, carrying with it a powerful reminder of the importance of people-centred cancer care, placing individuals and their unique journeys at the heart of treatment and support.
The event underscored the significance of treating not just the disease but the person, promoting the value of social connections and community involvement in improving cancer treatment outcomes.
The Organising Chair of the World Cancer Day 2025 celebration campaign, Dr Hj Muhd Syafiq Bin Abdullah, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted: “Brunei Cancer Centre is the main centre for cancer care and management, offering a range of services from early detection to treatment stages, including advice and tests for individuals at high risk.
“We utilise the latest treatment methods and modern technology to detect and treat cancer. We also serve as the primary referral centre for cancer management and control, including providing information on cancer.”
He added: “To ensure effective impact and sustainability, The Brunei Cancer Centre consistently delivers messages about cancer throughout the year, ensuring that they remain relevant, consistent, and have a positive effect on patients, citizens, and residents of Brunei Darussalam.
“This is evident from initiatives carried out recently by the centre, such as briefings and collaborations with government and non-government agencies, schools, and public awareness activities.”
He then called on the public to unite in supporting the goals of cancer prevention and control in the country.
“In general,” he said, “we can show support by ensuring that we and our families take early preventive measures by getting cancer screenings, acquiring comprehensive information about cancer, sharing it with family, friends, and others, and most importantly, adopting healthy eating habits and maintaining an active lifestyle.”
This year’s event featured a 10km run initiative, inviting participants from all walks of life to show their support and solidarity in the fight against cancer.
Despite the rain, participants, ministers, and deputy ministers joined the crowds for the warm-up exercise session at the grandstand.
The event also featured thematic booths offering resources on cancer prevention, screening, wellness, and more. Among the engaging activities organised during the day was a fitness challenge hosted by local gym vendors, alongside an exhibition showcasing cancer-related services such as cancer rehabilitation, head and neck screening, and national cancer screening initiatives.
The 10 km run saw fierce competition in the rain, with Mohd Hakim Danish clinching first place in the men’s category with a time of 34 minutes and 39 seconds, followed by Mohd Amirl Hamdi Bin Jamil in second place with a time of 35 minutes and 23 seconds, while third place went to Udaya Pylami. In the women’s category, Nor Diyanah Binti Siew emerged victorious with a time of 50 minutes and 33 seconds, just seconds ahead of Shazana Hamirol, who secured second place with a time of 50 minutes and 43 seconds.
JPMC extends its sincere gratitude to all sponsors and partners for their invaluable support. Their collective commitment plays a crucial role in raising awareness, providing vital assistance, and advancing cancer care within the community.
The event inspired the community to engage in open discussions about cancer, ensuring that individuals’ personal stories and experiences remained at the heart of cancer care.
Healthcare professionals and patients shared insights into people-centred care, emphasising the importance of listening to patients’ needs and treating them as individuals rather than focusing solely on their diagnosis.
JPMC remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for those affected by cancer, with the “United by Unique” theme at the core of all activities during World Cancer Day 2025. – James Kon
