People at risk of lung cancer, especially the underserved or who can’t access medical facilities – could have their lung diseases detected early due to a portable AI-powered chest X-Ray.
The service, provided by the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM), through partnerships with various organisations, aims to improve Malaysians’ chances of surviving lung cancer, which is often detected in late stages.
This initiative was officiated by Malaysia’s Minister of Health, Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad at the National Tobacco Control Conference (NTCC) 2025 held at the University of Cyberjaya today. Collaborators of the initiative include NCSM, NEXUS Healthcare and Theta Edge Berhad.
“Lung, trache, and bronchus cancers are the second most common cancer among men,” says Assoc. Prof. Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, Managing Director of NCSM. “About 90 per cent of these cases are diagnosed at Stage 3 and 4, leading to complications in treatment, lower chances of survival, than if the cancers were detected early.
“Worse still, those who are at risk of lung cancer are often from underserved communities, who are unable to bear the costs for treatment and care.”
“The portable chest X-ray service, housed within NCSM’s mobile clinics, directly addresses this need by facilitating timely, accurate, and accessible screenings, especially in areas where healthcare access is limited,” he adds.
The National Tobacco Control Conference also launched ‘Pak Lung’, the National Lung Health Initiative mascot. Inspired by the Malayan tiger (‘Pak Belang’), Pak Lung symbolises resilience, awareness, and the collective fight against lung diseases. As a national figurehead, Pak Lung will spearhead campaigns on prevention, early screening, and healthy living.
To amplify its impact, 10 Pak Lung statues will be installed at iconic Kuala Lumpur landmarks such as KLCC, Dataran Merdeka, and Saloma Bridge to promote eco-tourism and raise public awareness around anti-smoking, anti-drug, and anti-vape efforts. A dedicated NGO fund was also launched, with platinum sponsors recognised by Pak Lung donning their corporate colors and attire, highlighting cross-sector solidarity in the fight for healthier lungs.
“The announcements made at NTCC 2025-mark significant milestones in our fight against tobacco. From AI-powered mobile screening to national education campaigns and youth-focused prevention initiatives, we are advancing a comprehensive and united front to protect Malaysians from the harms of tobacco and vaping,” said Kol. Bersekutu (PA) Associate Professor Dr. Murallitharan Munisamy, Chairman of the National Tobacco Control Conference 2025 Organising Committee
Two important publications were further launched at the National Tobacco Control Conference 2025: “E-Cigarettes: Risk, Research and Challenges” by Pusat Racun Negara offers in-depth insights into the health impacts, chemical makeup, and policy challenges of electronic cigarettes for researchers and policymakers, while “Siri Bebas Rokok”, a 12-title children’s book series by Universiti Sains Malaysia and Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), uses engaging storytelling to educate young readers on the dangers of smoking to people, animals, and the environment, supporting national youth health goals.
A separate MoU was also signed between Tobacco Free Generation International (TFGi), the Children’s Industry Lifelong Development Hub, and the Malaysian Council for Tobacco Control (MCTC). The initiative introduces the Tobacco-Free Generation curriculum, a cohort-based education model leveraging social media and storytelling to empower teenagers to reject
tobacco before addiction ever starts.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Tobacco Control Icon Award 2025 to three distinguished public health leaders:
- Prof. Dr Mohamad Haniki Bin Nik Mohamed, a national expert in smoking cessation and tobacco use disorder, instrumental in developing Malaysia’s clinical practice guidelines and overseeing nationwide cessation programmes.
- Muhammad Sha’ani Bin Abdullah, a veteran advocate and public policy leader, recognised for over four decades of service in consumer rights, tobacco control, and human health equity at both national and international levels.
- N.V. Subbarow, a public health officer and anti-smoking activities with Senior Education Officer Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) for nearly 43 years. He has led anti-sugar, alcohol, and pesticide campaigns. He has also founded hundreds of consumer clubs in primary as well as secondary schools to education students on health issues.
