2025 was a full year for Cancer Research Malaysia (CRMY). Across the year, we saw research, community and collaboration come together in meaningful ways — from fundraising events and public engagement to scientific training and patient-focused initiatives. Each month brought its own momentum, reminding us that progress against cancer takes many forms, and many people. Here are some milestones which marked the past 12 months:

January: Musical Treasures Takes the Stage

The year began with Musical Treasures, a charity musical led by renowned choreographer Farah Sulaiman in support of CRMY. Featuring a cast of 50 children and adults, the production brought Broadway favourites such as Hamilton and Mamma Mia! to life. Beyond the performances, the musical highlighted how the arts can play a role in supporting cancer research and bringing families together for a shared cause.

February: Laughter with Purpose

In February, laughter took centre stage at Life Is Funny Too, CRMY’s charity comedy and music night at the HGH Convention Centre, Sentul. Building on the success of the previous year, the event drew more than 800 attendees for an evening of laughter, music and solidarity. The night featured performances by Douglas Lim, Joanne Kam Poh Poh and Ning Baizura, and was hosted by Dato’ Leonard Tan.

March: Betul Ke Cancer? Wraps Up

In conjunction with World Cancer Day on 4 February, Cancer Research Malaysia launched a limited podcast series, Betul Ke Cancer? (BKC). Hosted by Dr. Kartini, the series aims to debunk myths, share evidence-based insights, and spark meaningful conversations about cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship. Explore the full series via our YouTube playlist here.

April: Building Capacity Through AACR on Campus

Planning for the AACR on Campus–Malaysia programme began in March–April, leading to landmark events in Kuala Lumpur (10–11 Nov) and Kuching (13–14 Nov). In partnership with the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), this first-ever Southeast Asia edition empowered early-career researchers and clinicians to tackle cancer challenges unique to Asia. By fostering mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing, the programme strengthened regional research capacity and advanced the fight against cancer. Learn more here.

May: Racing Together Against Cancer

May marked a milestone with CRMY’s first fundraising run under its own brand, Race Against Cancer (RAC). Held in conjunction with CRMY’s 25th anniversary, the run drew over 1000 participants and raised close to RM200,000 for local cancer research. The event exceeded expectations and brought together individuals, families and corporate teams. Since then, we have organised RAC Nilai in October with a Pink October theme, and RAC KL will be in March 2026.

June: Expanding Cancer Care in Sabah

June marked an important step forward in East Malaysia, as CRMY signed six Memoranda of Understanding with hospitals across Sabah to expand the accessibility of our Pink Ribbon Centre (Patient Navigation Programme). Held in Kota Kinabalu, the signing strengthened efforts to improve access to cancer care for women in East Malaysia, particularly those living in rural and remote communities. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration in ensuring timely diagnosis and support where it is needed most.

July: Opening the Lab Doors

July saw the launch of CRMY’s first-ever Fan Club, a new way for the public to engage more closely with cancer research. Participants visited CRMY’s laboratories, wore lab coats, met researchers, and learned more about how research is conducted. It was a simple but meaningful way to build understanding, trust and connection between scientists and the community they serve.

August: Strengthening Oral Cancer Screening

CRMY strengthened its oral cancer efforts in August through an MoU with Dr Wong and Partners. The partnership focuses on expanding the use of the MeMoSA (Mobile Mouth Screening Anywhere) app, supporting earlier detection and raising awareness of oral cancer risks in the community.

September: The Terry Fox Run Returns

September marked the return of the Terry Fox Run, this time at a new location, IOI City Mall Putrajaya. Nearly 3,000 participants turned up early in the morning, many arriving before sunrise, ready to “Finish It”. Hosted by Lite FM’s Terry Ong, himself a former Terry Fox runner, the event continued a long-standing tradition of public support for cancer research.

October: Introducing NORA

In conjunction with Pink October, CRMY introduced NORA, Navigation, Outreach & Resource Access at a media roundtable in Kuala Lumpur. NORA is a rebranding of the Patient Navigation Programme (PnP), giving the initiative a distinct identity under CRMY while continuing to provide structured, one-to-one guidance for patients from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up, addressing barriers such as financial hardship, logistical challenges, and fear of treatment.

November: Launching ARiCa, the Asian Genetic Risk Calculator 

On 6 Nov, at the Malaysian Breast & Endocrine Surgery Course (MBESC), we launched ARiCa – the Asian Genetic Risk Calculator. Developed with Asian data, ARiCa helps patients and doctors better understand inherited cancer risks and make personalised decisions with confidence. By identifying those likely to carry faulty BRCA genes, ARiCa enables timely genetic testing and counselling, opening the door to more effective treatment plans. Learn more here:

December: A Legacy That Travels Far

The year closed with a meaningful visit from Fred Fox, brother of the late Terry Fox, who came to Malaysia for the first time. During his visit, Fred met CRMY researchers, Terry Fox Run supporters and members of the public. He toured CRMY’s laboratories and joined a meet and greet session, sharing stories of Terry’s life and legacy. The visit offered a powerful reminder that Terry Fox’s vision continues to support cancer research and community action far beyond Canada.