Angkasawan for breast cancer campaign

Having conquered space, Malaysia’s first Angkasawan now wants to change the world, writes INTAN MAIZURA AHMAD KAMAL

WITH his stylish Nehru jacket worn over a striking shirt, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Al Masrie Sheikh Mustapha once again reduces women — grown women — to drooling teenagers as he saunters in to the Pride office in Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.

It’s difficult not to be charmed by that intense Tom Cruise-like gaze and that boyish smile but the dashing angkasawan would rather be remembered for being more than just a pretty boy.

Since returning to Earth amidst much fanfare and flash of photographers’ bulbs, the Petaling Jaya-born but Seremban-raised orthopedic physician and previously part-time model, has been busy travelling around the country educating and motivating people.

The 35-year-old has also been a part of some notable causes, the latest of which is as spokesperson for Avon Malaysia’s Walk Around The World For Breast Cancer campaign, a global programme, already in its fourth year, involving thousands of women powered by a shared commitment – to end breast cancer and break barriers to access to quality care. This is the first time that Avon Malaysia (linking up with Pride, a charity organisation dedicated to breast cancer causes) is holding this walk, together with Reebok as the official footwear and apparel sponsor.

“It’s sad that men can only stand helplessly on the sidelines and watch their mothers, sisters or female friends suffer. It’s time that everybody, regardless of gender, plays a part in fighting breast cancer,” says Muszaphar, who lost an aunt to the disease.

His selection and decision to be involved in what’s generally considered a female cause has raised some eyebrows but he’s not fazed.

“This is not just a woman’s issue,” the Leo says emphatically. “Men can get breast cancer too, even if it’s only less than one per cent chance. But as we all know, in our lives, there are women — daughters, mothers and sisters — so it’s just as important for men to be aware. It’s very difficult when someone you love has cancer, not only breast cancer. It changes the whole environment of the family. We must all be well informed to survive this.”

It saddens him that most women only make the trip to the hospital when the disease has reached the late stages. “Women shouldn’t have to die because of cancer. We should reach out and educate them that they can beat it if it’s detected early. This is what the programme is about - to reach out to every layer of society and to inform them of the possibilities.”

The fact that he’s a medical doctor is reason enough for his selection. “I’ve seen and been around cancer patients,” adds Muszaphar who cites Tun Dr Mahathir and Nelson Mandela as his heroes (“I admire people who change the world”).

“And now (having been to space), I can also reach out to a lot of people. When Avon asked me to come onboard as its ambassador for this campaign, I leapt at the chance.”

Looking thoughtful, he continues: “Space has really changed my perspective on life. Seeing how tiny Earth really is… I’ve realised, since coming back, that I’m not interested anymore in petty little things. There are global issues to deal with, like children dying, women suffering, pollution, and wars. I’m hoping to make the world a better place to live in, however I can. That’s my promise.”

What drives him?

Muszaphar pauses. “All my life I’ve been doing a lot of soul searching, wondering just what is the purpose of my existence in this world. In 2002, I went to Afghanistan for humanitarian aid during the war, building hospitals, treating Afghan children. In 2003 I was in Cambodia. I’ve always wanted to make my voice heard and make changes but never knew how to do it.

“When I applied for the space programme, I knew it would be mine! I believe it to be my destiny. Now I’m in a better position to do what I want to do – bring about changes and try to make the world a better place.”

He admits it’s easier now for him to inspire people, especially the young, to reach for the stars. “I’ve gone to more than 150 schools, universities and villages since returning from my space mission. It’s amazing what an impact the space programme has had on the younger generation,” says Muszaphar, who goes back once a week to Hospital University Kebangsaan Malaysia for his duties as a doctor. “All the five-year-olds I’ve met now want to go to space, and there’s renewed interest in Maths and the Sciences.”

Growing up, Muszaphar, whose favourite films are Star Wars and Star Trek and whose childhood bedroom was filled with glow-in-the-dark stars, dreamt of going to space. “I remember looking up to the sky, wanting to know what life there was up there,” he confides. “I’m sure every child dreams of going to space.”

Flashing his megawatt smile again, he says: “The message I’m trying to send out is that it took me 25 years to achieve my dream. I always tell the kids that I’m just like them but I had the mental strength to go for it. And they should too. Having said that, it’s not just about having dreams, it’s about working hard to achieve them. Dreams are possible.”

Avon Walk Around The World For Breast Cancer 2008

When: Aug 10, 7am

Venue: Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, KL

Ticket: RM20 per person (with RM20, you’ll receive a Reebok T-shirt worth RM90 and Avon goodies worth RM50)

Entry forms are available at all Avon boutiques in the Klang Valley, Reebok stores and Pride head office at 7th floor, Wisma KLIH, 126 Jln Bukit Bintang, KL.

Call 03-7965 7100 for details.