KUALA LUMPUR: Some 700 cyclists joined a fun cycling event as part of the Wacoal Pink Ribbon campaign to spread awareness on breast cancer here today.
The 25-km cycling event, which kicked-off at the New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd (NSTP) Balai Berita in Jalan Riong, saw cyclists, who among them included cancer survivors, clad in bright pink jerseys bearing the slogan, “Because We Care”, riding through major landmarks in the city.
The fun ride, which marked the fifth consecutive year of collaboration between Wacoal Malaysia and NSTP to promote better breast cancer awareness, was launched by Wacoal Malaysia executive director Takashi Watanabe who said that the company has been committed in campaigning for the active prevention of breast cancer for fifteen years under the Pink Ribbon Campaign.
“Breast cancer is still a major problem for women in Malaysia, with approximately one in 19 being at risk of developing the disease in her lifetime,” he said.
“We are honoured to partner with NSTP again in promoting awareness on breast cancer to the public,” he added.
NSTP chief commercial officer Alfian Abu Talib said that the event has seen increased participation over the five years.
Alfian added that he was glad that NSTP, as a media company, could play its part in bringing in the crowd and spreading cancer awareness, and hoped to expand similar events to other states.
“Social movements have been gaining traction through media companies like us and causes can become more prevalent with the support from the community,” he said.
New Straits Times group editor Yushaimi Maulud Yahya said that the event, while fun in nature, carried a serious message.
“Cancer is a serious issue. Awareness is healthy but it needs to be heightened and it should not stop after this event,” he said.
“The fun ride has continued to garner extremely healthy participation and is a reflection of the commitment of NSTP, Wacoal Malaysia and all parties involved to the cause. Kudos to everyone,” he added.
Also at the event was Wacoal Malaysia marketing and sales deputy general manger Lo Yean Feein.