MELAKA: The Relay for Life Malaysia (RFL Malaysia) programme will be expanded to two more states next year in an effort to raise awareness about cancer prevention among the public in the country. The National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) managing director, associate professor Dr. M. Murallitharan, said the programme which has been held in Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Perak, will now be extended to Penang and Johor to ensure that a wider segment of society receives the message about this deadly disease in a more comprehensive and effective manner. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Murallitharan stated that the programme was organised in Kuala Lumpur on November 16 and 17, with over 3,000 participants. In Melaka, over 1,000 participants took part in various activities, and the event will move to Perak on December 7 and 8. He emphasized the need for the programme's expansion to reach the community directly and convey the importance of early cancer prevention. Future plans include holding the event in the East Coast, Sabah, and Sarawak. Dr. Murallitharan made these remarks after the launch of the RFL Malaysia 2024 programme, which was officiated by Manipal University College Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Adinegara Lutfi Abas, and attended by NCSM President Datuk Dr. S. Saunthari and Suria Harmony Resource director, Mohd Fikri Mohd Ali. He highlighted that the RFL Malaysia programme offers hope and support to those facing challenges, particularly those diagnosed with cancer. He noted an annual increase in cancer patients since 2017, with many cases being diagnosed at later stages. Cancer is affecting younger individuals in their 30s, primarily due to unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits. The most common cancers in the country are breast, colorectal, and lung cancer. During the programme, NCSM received a RM5,000 donation from Suria Harmony Resource, presented by Mohd Fikri to Saunthari. Mohd Fikri explained that the donation is part of the company's corporate social responsibility to assist NGOs like NC SM in organising more cancer awareness programmes. Mohd Fikri mentioned his familiarity with NCSM through Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chairman, Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, who inspired him in undertaking CSR work. The company plans to continue supporting those in need through NGOs, with an allocated budget for CSR contributions each year.