Date: 22 February 2025
SPEECH BY TAN KWANG CHEAK, SINGAPORE CANCER SOCIETY (SCS) CEO AT CAMPUNG FESTIVAL, WORLD CANCER DAY CARNIVAL 22 FEB 2025
Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Digital Development and Information & Ministry of National Development, Mr Tan Kiat How,
Our dearest cancer beneficiaries,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Every year, on 4 February, the world unites to mark World Cancer Day – a day of awareness, action, and hope. In conjunction with this important occasion, the Singapore Cancer Society strives to bring attention to this disease, break down myths, and inspire action towards a cancer-free Singapore.
This year, the global theme for World Cancer Day, United By Unique, reminds us that every individual’s experience with cancer is different. No two stories are the same, but what binds us is the need for compassion, understanding, and a strong support system.
That is why we are putting our own spin on World Cancer Day this year with our CAmpung Festival. The word “kampung” reminds us of the power of community, a call to each of us to play our part in making Singapore a healthier place for all. It is a celebration of togetherness, awareness, and action.
It’s very heartening to see all of you here on a day where the Singaporean community comes together to spread cancer awareness,- and acknowledge and celebrate those actively fighting the disease.
As Singapore’s leading cancer charity, SCS has been supporting our community for over 60 years, offering services that span the entire cancer journey – from prevention and early detection to patient support, rehabilitation, and survivorship.
As we look ahead, we are placing greater emphasis on helping cancer survivors reintegrate into daily life. We understand that fighting cancer is more than just receiving medical treatment – it’s about finding normalcy, rebuilding confidence, and regaining independence. Through our rehabilitation programmes, we want to ensure that every survivor gets the support they need, not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well.
We also know that cancer doesn’t just affect patients – it greatly impacts families and loved ones too. That’s why we are expanding our caregiving support, ensuring that families have the resources and guidance to navigate this journey together.
Another area we are focusing on is Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA) impacted by cancer. Cancer does not discriminate. While it remains largely a disease of older age, more young people are being diagnosed and we are committed to doing more to ensure that they do not have to face cancer alone.
Prevention and early detection remain our strongest weapons against cancer. Many of us already know the basics — eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough rest — but it is equally important to go for regular screenings.
In line with the Healthier SG initiative, Singaporeans now have even more support to take charge of their health. Nationally recommended screenings are fully subsidised, which means there’s no reason to delay getting checked. If you or your loved ones are eligible, I encourage you to act, whether it’s going for a mammogram or picking up a FIT kit for colorectal screening at your Healthier SG Clinic. Early detection can truly save lives.
Beyond screenings, I also invite all of you to join us in supporting the cancer community through the upcoming Singapore Cancer Society-TalkMed Relay For Life More than just a fundraising event, this is an opportunity for us to show solidarity and stand with those affected. Fighting cancer is not an individual battle, but one we take on as a community – every person’s contribution, be it through financial means, volunteering, or moral support, makes a difference and is valued.
Before I wrap up, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our partners, volunteers, and the entire SCS team for putting together this meaningful event. To all of you here today, thank you for being part of this movement.
Let’s make the most of these two days of CAmpung Festival to learn something new, get involved, and most importantly, bring these conversations beyond today. Together, we can create a future where cancer is no longer a life-defining disease, but one that we can detect early, treat effectively, and support fully.
Thank you.