The National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) has been recognised as one of three international recipients of the “Home Away From Home” programme, an initiative by Childhood Cancer International (CCI) and Foundation S to support children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment.
Launched in 2024, the programme seeks to reduce treatment abandonment by providing free or low-cost accommodation for young cancer patients and their caregivers, ensuring they remain close to medical facilities throughout their care journey. Alongside partners in Bolivia and Zambia, NCSM’s efforts in Malaysia have demonstrated a committed model of compassionate care.
Through the support of the programme, NCSM received funding that enabled them to provide over 1,007 bed nights between July and December 2024. In total, 185 families benefited from the initiative during this period.
The organisation’s network of homes, operated under its Children’s Home of Hope initiative, offers a sanctuary just minutes away from major hospitals such as Hospital Kuala Lumpur. These homes provide not only a safe place to sleep but also psychosocial support, nutritious meals, transport assistance, and an empathetic environment for both the children and their caregivers.
The “Home Away From Home” programme, in its first round of applications, received 22 eligible proposals from 18 countries. Ultimately, three new homes were supported which included Fundación Nuestra Esperanza from Bolivia and Kayula Foundation from Zambia, in addition to National Cancer Society Malaysia from Malaysia
“Access to treatment is not just about hospitals and doctors—it’s about support systems that make treatment possible,” said representatives from CCI and Foundation S. “Having a home near treatment centers can be the difference between completing therapy and abandoning it.”
The collaboration highlights a growing awareness of the non-medical needs of cancer patients, especially in low- and middle-income countries. By offering essential services such as lodging, food, and emotional
As the “Home Away From Home” programme grows, organisations like NCSM remain at the heart of this global movement—ensuring that no child has to fight cancer alone or far from comfort.
support, NCSM and its partners are creating pathways to healing that go beyond the clinical setting.
In 2024, NCSM’s seven existing Homes of Hope provided accommodation for 456 cancer patients and 726 caregivers, totaling 9,850 bed nights. All services offered by the homes are free of charge, funded entirely by public donations.
