In conjunction with the Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Pink October), natural peanut butter brand Jobbie has partnered with the Malaysian National Cancer Council (Makna) to launch a special CSR and education campaign called the “Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey”.
The campaign, aimed to raise the awareness of breast cancer while supporting Makna’s breast health initiatives, was officially launched at Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 23, 2024.
“Jobbie’s collaboration with Makna serves as a reminder to all Malaysians to take an active role in understanding and promoting breast health. Early detection saves lives, and the Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey encourages everyone to spread knowledge, support survivors and contribute to breast cancer research and care,” said Jobbie chief executive officer Victor Chin.
Chin said, “At Jobbie, we believe that just like how our peanut butter spreads joy, we would like to spread some hope, cheer and support for breast cancer fighters and survivors through this initiative.
“Our commitment is to help Malaysians live better and healthier lives, and at the same time inspires Malaysians at large to be cognisant about the disease that impacts not just the patient but her family as well,
“Hence, through this initiative, we are rallying the community and caregivers’ support for each other and to take breast health seriously.”
Also present at the event were Makna deputy General manager Vemanna Appannah, VIPs, collaborators, media and content creators, including social media influencer Maryam You Narae.
At the event, Jobbie introduced its limited-edition of 5,000 Jobbie pink jars specially-designed with the “Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey” label.
Every jar features breast cancer awareness information with a striking pink design, symbolising the journey and courage of individuals affected by the disease.
For every jar sold, RM1 will be donated to Makna to support its breast health programmes, helping to provide resources and care for those affected by breast cancer.
The campaign’s name is made up of two key elements of the cancer journey. “Wobbly” symbolises the vulnerability individuals face when battling breast cancer, while “Odyssey” mirrors the unique and courageous journey of each person coping with the disease.
The campaign aligns with Jobbie’s ethos of spreading joy and advocating for a better quality of life.
The launch event featured a lineup of health and wellness activities promoting a holistic regime for the breast health care.
Guests enjoyed a yoga session which reiterates the importance of mental health for people living with cancer, while the Wobbly Breast Hall of Fame exhibition included information about the campaign and artwork inspired by the Wobbly Breast Design.
Participants were also treated to various fun experiential stations which included creating their very own piece of art and receiving a complimentary breast cancer screening, sponsored by Damansara Specialist Hospital 2.
Breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer among females in Malaysia, accounting for 32% of all cancers detected in women. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, with a higher incidence among individuals above the age of 50.
Many cases are diagnosed at the late stages, with almost half of cases detected at Stage 3 or Stage 4, when treatment options become more limited and the chances of survival decrease. These statistics highlight the critical need for early detection and regular screenings, particularly for women over 40, to improve outcomes and reduce mortality rates associated with the disease.
A coffee talk with a health expert and a cancer survivor who shared their practical insights on cancer care and management held the audience captive and engaged throughout the session.
Dr Haliza Kamarudin, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist of Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 (DSH2), spoke about women’s wellness, emphasizing the importance of early screenings like mammograms and self-examinations at different stages of life.
“For our role in gynecology, we do emphasize on women’s general health, hygiene and well-being and in the case of breast cancer, advise certain ways to manage it with treatments, hormonal therapies and overall women’s health management plan.
“Regular screenings and early detection are key in preventing getting breast cancer or take steps to manage it at early stages,” she said.
Cancer survivor and advocate Choo Mei Sze shared her personal battle and triumph over cancer, giving encouragement to those facing the same challenges.
“Going through cancer was a lonely journey filled with ups and downs especially at a young age, so having the support from my family and loves ones was very important. The key is to stay strong and positive and take steps to manage the disease with the right information and treatment. I am honoured to be part of this initiative to share my personal journey with the hope of inspiring others who are fighting their own battles.”