HIS Royal Highness Sultan Perak Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah has called for a stronger and more inclusive national approach to fighting cancer, with efforts extending beyond research and policy to deliver tangible benefits to patients and their families.
In outlining three priorities for all stakeholders, Sultan Nazrin said cancer research must be scientifically rigorous and ultimately reach patients across the country, rather than remain concentrated in major urban centres.
“First, our scientists and doctors must continue conducting research that is not only beneficial but also scientifically robust and rigorous, so that its findings reach patients in every state and not just those in major cities.
“Second, policymakers must listen carefully to the evidence and personal stories shared here and incorporate them into the national cancer strategy.
“Third, each of us must remember that the fight against cancer begins with our own choices, our workplaces and our willingness to speak openly about a disease that is too often discussed only in whispers,” His Royal Highness said.
Sultan Nazrin was speaking at the opening of the National Cancer Congress Malaysia 2026 at Sunway University in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.
Also present were Sunway Group founder and chairman Tan Sri Dr Jeffrey Cheah and Deputy Director-General of Health (Public Health) Dr Ismuni Bohari.
Sultan Nazrin said the theme of the National Cancer Congress Malaysia 2026, “Bridging Gaps, Building Hope, Empowering Lives” reflected the need to promote greater equity in the fight against cancer while combining scientific advances with compassion in giving patients hope.
He said the effort was ultimately about more than the disease itself, as cancer also affected people’s lives, families and the future of generations to come.
The Sultan also expressed his appreciation for the achievements of Malaysia’s health and research communities, while voicing hope that the congress would generate further initiatives to strengthen the country’s response to cancer. - September 6, 2026
