MELAKA, 9 OCTOBER 2026 – Mahkota Medical Centre brought together more than 80 attendees at Hard Rock Cafe Melaka for Pink October 2026. Held in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event combined specialist insights, a cancer survivor’s personal experience and open discussion to raise awareness of breast cancer and the support patients and families need.

Under the theme “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone”, the programme highlighted the importance of clear medical information, coordinated care and emotional support throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Bringing Medical Expertise and Personal Experience Together

The event featured a health forum titled “Beyond the Pink Ribbon: Stories, Treatment & Hope in the Breast Cancer Journey”, moderated by Dr Ooi Cheng Lee, Senior Manager, Centre of Excellence.

The panel comprised Dr Ho Pey Woei, Consultant General & Breast Surgeon; Dr Chong Kwang Jeat, Consultant Clinical Oncologist; and Dr Norsa’adah Binti Salim, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist. Cancer survivor Dr Azirah Bt Zolkifli also shared her experience, offering insight into the emotions and challenges patients may face.

Dr Ho highlighted the importance of helping patients understand their diagnosis, surgical options and how treatment may affect their daily lives. Dr Chong emphasised that treatment plans must consider each patient’s individual circumstances, with clear guidance on what to expect, how side effects will be managed and when to seek help.

A question-and-answer session gave attendees the opportunity to raise concerns directly with the panel and gain a clearer understanding of breast cancer care.

Supporting Patients Through Treatment and Recovery

Ms Teo Chin Yee, Chief Executive Officer of Mahkota Medical Centre, shared that the uncertainty following a breast cancer diagnosis often extends beyond treatment. Patients may also worry about their families, daily responsibilities and what lies ahead, making practical guidance and a listening ear essential parts of care.

Mahkota’s multidisciplinary team and Nurse Navigators support patients throughout treatment and follow-up. Nurse Navigators help patients understand their care plans, coordinate appointments and connect with relevant services, giving patients and families a clearer understanding of the next steps and whom to contact with questions.

This support also extends to families, helping them understand the care plan and how to care for their loved ones.

International Recognition and Coordinated Breast Cancer Care

Mahkota holds Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation, which recognises hospitals that meet rigorous international standards for healthcare quality and patient safety. It was also the first hospital in Malaysia to receive JCI certification for its breast cancer care programme, covering care processes, patient and caregiver education, and ongoing performance improvement.

Mahkota has also been recognised in Oncology in Newsweek and Statista’s Best Specialized Hospitals Asia Pacific rankings for four consecutive years, from 2023 to 2026. It is the only hospital in Malaysia’s Southern Region recognised in this specialty over that period.

From 2022 to September 2026, Mahkota’s JCI Cancer Care Program for Breast Cancer enrolled 326 patients. Among patients receiving each treatment, completion rates were 88.4% for chemotherapy and 97.8% for radiotherapy.

The programme provides a structured care pathway from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up. Through multidisciplinary tumour board discussions, breast surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and nurse navigators jointly review cases to inform treatment recommendations. Nursing and allied health professionals also support patients’ wider needs, including dietary advice and physiotherapy.

A Community United in Pink

Attendees arrived in pink attire to show solidarity with those affected by breast cancer. An online quiz with prizes and a Zumba session encouraged participation and interaction in a relaxed setting.

The event marked Mahkota’s sixth collaboration with Hard Rock Cafe Melaka, which provided the venue, hospitality and refreshments, creating a welcoming space for the community to come together.

The event was featured in Sin Chew Daily, bringing the message “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone” to a wider audience and highlighting the importance of continued support for patients and their families.