Novartis Malaysia Recognized for Community Impact in Cancer Care

• Novartis Malaysia was awarded the Community Impact in Cancer Care Award at the National Cancer Congress Malaysia (NCCM) by Health Minister YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
• NCCM, organised by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), highlighted efforts to improve the cancer landscape in Malaysia.
• The importance of public-private partnerships was emphasized by key speakers and panellists who believe that multistakeholder collaborations is the key to a heathier nation.

Petaling Jaya, August 19 2024 – Novartis Malaysia has been honoured with the Community Impact in Cancer Care Award at the inaugural National Cancer Congress Malaysia (NCCM). The award, presented by Health Minister YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, is the culmination of multifaceted initiatives by Novartis Malaysia and multiple collaborations with NCSM over the years

NCCM, organized by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), focused on “Bridging Gaps, Building Hope, Empowering Lives” and brought together key stakeholders to address pressing issues in cancer care. The platform facilitated in-depth discussions between healthcare professionals, policymakers, advocates, academia, and the private sector on ways to improve cancer outcomes. 

During the event – held in collaboration with Sunway University – YB Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, reiterated the importance of partnerships in advancing cancer care and improving patient outcomes. NCCM’s agenda is one that aligns with the National Strategic Plan for Cancer Control Program 2021-2025, which focuses on cancer prevention and control via a holistic approach. 

Novartis Malaysia recognised for community impact in cancer care

Talks were also delivered by representatives from Novartis Malaysia including Country Public Affairs Head, Panderengen Jegatheswaran and Country Medical Affairs Head, Dr Sethi Balraj on improving the breast cancer landscape via public-private partnerships and ethics of collaboration. 

Mohamed Elwakil, Country President for Novartis Malaysia and Brunei, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the company’s ongoing commitment to improving the lives of breast cancer patients through innovative therapies and impactful partnerships. He stated:

“At Novartis Malaysia, we believe in going above and beyond, together, for patients. Partnerships with the right stakeholders will enable us to fulfil our purpose of improving and extending the lives of Malaysians. 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Malaysia¹. Beyond providing innovative treatments, we recognize that there are other unmet needs, leading us to seek meaningful and impactful partnerships to address those gaps. The recent acknowledgment from NCSM for making an impact in the cancer community inspires and energizes us to continue making a difference for breast cancer patients in the country. 

In addition to partnerships, we are also strong advocates of innovation. During NCCM, we’re happy to co-champion yet another joint initiative with NCSM via the introduction of a counselling feature in ICanCare application. This addition to the application will make it an even more comprehensive platform to assist cancer patients on their journey.”

1 in 19 Malaysian women are at risk of developing breast cancer and is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women of all ethnic groups. According to the GLOBOCAN 2020 report, breast cancer accounts for 32.9% of all cancer cases among Malaysian women. Alarmingly, more than half (52.2%) of Malaysian women present with advanced-stage breast cancer under the age of 50², contributing to higher mortality rates. 

Therefore, digital innovations such as ICanCare are crucial in helping patients and caregivers navigate the complexities of the disease. Apart from providing educational resources, practical tools, and directories, the addition of a counselling feature will also enable patients to receive crucial psychosocial support. 

With a national smartphone user penetration rate of 89%  this app – available for free on Apple’s App Store or Google Play – could also potentially serve cancer patients who do not have easy access to clinicians such as those living in rural areas. 

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