By DayakDaily Team
MIRI, April 1: In the Miri Division, where an average of 10 to 12 colorectal cancer cases are reported per 100,000 residents annually and Miri Hospital records up to 300 new cases each year, the hospital has officially launched the Colorectal Cancer Navigation Clinic, a one-stop centre aimed at guiding patients through every stage of their treatment.
According to the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) news, the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 2026 campaign was officially launched by Councillor Sean Huang Hong Siong, representing Miri City Council (MCC) Mayor Adam Yii, at the Endoscopy Unit in Block A on Tuesday (March 31).
In his speech, Yii emphasised that while March is recognised globally as International Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, with its signature blue-ribbon campaign, awareness efforts must continue year-round.
“Hospital colorectal unit data shows that only eight per cent of patients are diagnosed at an early stage. Meanwhile, 49 per cent present with locally advanced disease, and 43 per cent with metastatic cancer.
“This clearly underscores the importance of early detection, as patients diagnosed early have more treatment options and higher survival rates,” he added, highlighting the importance of public participation in early screening,” he said.
Following its upgrade to a tertiary facility, Miri Hospital now serves as the key referral centre for Sarawak’s Northern Zone, offering colorectal surgery subspecialty services since 2025.
The Colorectal Cancer Navigation Clinic integrates endoscopy services, treatment, monitoring, stoma care, and rehabilitation to provide holistic support for patients.
Its approach centres on three pillars: raising community awareness, encouraging voluntary early screening, and delivering comprehensive treatment support.
Anchored by the themes “Early Detection Equals Better Protection” and “No One Fights Alone”, the initiative reflects Miri Hospital’s commitment to high-quality care and full patient support.
Also present were Miri Hospital director Dr Jack Wong Siew Yu, head of the General Surgery Department Dr Aminnur Hafiz Maliki, consultant colorectal surgeon Dr Kenneth Voon, and Miri Hospital Colorectal Programme chairperson Matron Collin Utan. — DayakDaily
