SANDAKAN: More than 300 participants took part in the Pinktober Fun Run 2026, held at the vicinity of Sandakan Community Hall on Saturday, in a concerted effort to raise public awareness of breast cancer and highlight the importance of early detection.
The five-kilometre (5KM) fun run, which began at 7.30am, carried the theme “Together For A Healthier Tomorrow” and the slogan “Healthy Women, Strong Families, Prosperous Communities”.
Sungai Manila State Assemblyman and Sawit Kinabalu Group Chairman, Datuk Hazem Mubarak Tun Musa, said the encouraging turnout reflected strong community support for initiatives aimed at promoting breast cancer awareness.
He said the Pinktober programme, held in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, not only encouraged participants to adopt active and healthy lifestyles but also served as a platform to foster community solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.
According to him, active public participation in health advocacy programmes and community activities was essential to improving understanding of the disease, particularly the importance of women’s health, regular health checks and early detection.
Hazem expressed hope that the programme would become an annual event every October, in conjunction with Pinktober, and attract even greater participation from the community in the years ahead.
Earlier, Hazem officiated the flag-off of Pinktober Fun Run 2026. He was accompanied by his wife, Datin Merdiline Hj Albaris. Also present were Sandakan Municipal Council President Datuk Walter Kenson and other officials.
The event is expected to serve as a continuing platform to promote healthier lifestyles, strengthen public awareness of breast cancer and encourage greater community involvement in safeguarding women’s health for the well-being of families and society. – James Leong
Hazem (centre), and other officials during the flag-off ceremony.
