Sarawak Energy and Roche Pharmaceuticals Malaysia have joined forces to enhance access to cancer treatment for underserved patients. The Borneo Post reported that the two organisations officially launched the ‘Empower HER’ Innovative Funding Model through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing aimed at easing the financial burden of breast cancer treatment in public hospitals in Sarawak.
This collaborative initiative brings together multiple stakeholders to co-fund vital cancer treatments, ensuring equitable access for patients from lower-income groups. Sarawak Energy’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Sharbini Suhaili, emphasised the importance of shared responsibility in addressing healthcare gaps.
“This initiative is a testament to the power of partnerships, with multiple funders working together to cover treatment costs for financially challenged patients,” Sharbini said at the MoU signing at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH). “We are committed to ensuring early HER2-positive breast cancer patients receive timely, innovative treatments.”
Representing their respective organisations at the signing were Sarawak Energy’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Services, Siti Aisah Adenan, and Roche Pharmaceuticals Malaysia General Manager, Deepti Saraf. The event was witnessed by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
The initial phase will provide fully funded treatment to ten patients from the lower M40 and B40 income brackets. The long-term goal is to expand the initiative into a sustainable funding model that can continue to support more patients.
Malaysia has seen a steady rise in breast cancer cases, increasing at an annual rate of 4.5 percent between 2006 and 2015. Late-stage diagnoses remain a significant challenge, leading to higher treatment costs and complexity.
Sarawak Energy has long supported healthcare initiatives, including a partnership with the ROSE Foundation to offer free cervical cancer screenings to over 100 people in Baleh in 2024. Additionally, its cataract screening programs have benefited nearly 230 people since 2017.
Roche Pharmaceuticals Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to improving cancer care access in Sarawak. “Empower HER is about removing financial and logistical barriers so that women can receive the care they need without delay,” said Saraf. “We have also partnered with Sarawak General Hospital on First in Human trials, which are advancing innovative treatments and strengthening Sarawak’s healthcare ecosystem.”
Saraf underscored that public-private collaborations are crucial to building an inclusive and sustainable healthcare system. “When key stakeholders align, we can create lasting impact for patients in need,” she said.
