IN conjunction with The Breast Cancer Awareness Month (popularly known as “Pink October”), natural peanut butter brand Jobbie recently announced its collaboration with the Malaysian National Cancer Council (Makna) to launch a special corporate social responsibility (CSR) and education campaign entitled the “Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey”.
The campaign, launched at the Damansara Specialist Hospital 2 (DSH2) with over 100 guests comprising the members of the public, VIP guests, collaborators, and media and content creators, aims to raise the awareness of breast cancer while supporting Makna’s breast health initiatives.
Among the guests were Makna deputy general manager Vemanna Appannah and social media influencer Maryam You Narae, also known as Maryam Durian Kimchi.
At the launch, Jobbie rolled out its limited-edition 5,000 Jobbie pink jars specially-designed with the “Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey” label. Every jar features breast cancer awareness information with a striking pink design, symbolising the journey and courage of individuals affected by the disease.
For every jar sold, RM1 will be donated to Makna to support its breast health programmes, helping to provide resources and care for those affected by breast cancer.
The campaign’s unique name is made up of two key elements of the cancer journey. The word “Wobbly” symbolises the vulnerability individuals face when battling breast cancer, while “Odyssey” mirrors the unique and courageous journey of each person coping with the disease.
Jobbie CEO Victor Chin said this aligns with Jobbie’s ethos of spreading joy and advocating for a better quality of life.
“Jobbie’s collaboration with MAKNA serves as a reminder to all Malaysians to take an active role in understanding and promoting breast health. Early detection saves lives, and the ‘Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey’ encourages everyone to spread knowledge, support survivors and contribute to breast cancer research and care.
“At Jobbie, we believe that just like how our peanut butter spreads joy, we would like to spread some hope, cheer and support for breast cancer fighters and survivors through this initiative. Our commitment is to help Malaysians live better and healthier lives, and at the same time inspire Malaysians at large to be cognisant about the disease that impacts not just the patient but her family as well. Hence, through this initiative, we are rallying the community and caregivers’ support for each other and to take breast health seriously.”
The launch headlined a kaleidoscopic repertoire of health and wellness activities which suggest a holistic regime for the breast health care.
Guests enjoyed a yoga session which reiterates the importance of mental health for people living with cancer.
The Wobbly Breast Hall of Fame exhibition featured information about the campaign as well as artwork inspired by the Wobbly Breast Design.
All participants were also treated to various fun experiential stations which included creating their very own piece of art and receiving a free breast cancer screening, generously provided by sponsor DSH2.
DSH2 said breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer among females in Malaysia, accounting for 32% of all cancers detected in women. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, with a higher incidence among individuals above the age of 50.
Sadly, many cases are diagnosed late, with almost half of cases detected at Stage 3 or Stage 4, when treatment options become more limited and the chances of survival decrease.
These statistics highlight the critical need for early detection and regular screenings, particularly for women over 40, to improve outcomes and reduce mortality rates associated with the disease.
The campaign’s launch enlisted a health expert and a cancer survivor to share practical insight on cancer care and management.
DSH2 consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Haliza Kamarudin spoke about women’s wellness, emphasising the importance of early screenings like mammograms and self-examinations at different stages of life.
“Women’s life experiences are impacted by various health risks and implications throughout various stages of their lives. These include hormonal changes, menopause and most rampantly breast cancer. For our role in gynaecology, we do emphasise on women’s general health, hygiene and well-being and in the case of breast cancer, advise certain ways to manage it with treatments, hormonal therapies and overall women’s health management plan,” she said.
“Ultimately, it is key for women to stay informed about breast health and monitor the risks and changes to their body and observe a healthy lifestyle regime. Regular screenings and early detection are key in preventing getting breast cancer or take steps to manage it at early stages.”
Host, cancer survivor and advocate Choo Mei Sze shared her personal battle and triumph over cancer, giving encouragement to those facing the same challenges.
“Going through cancer was a lonely journey filled with ups and downs especially at a young age, so having the support from my family and loves ones helped to make was very important.
“The key is to stay strong and positive and take steps to manage the disease with the right information and treatment. I am honoured to be part of this initiative to share my personal journey with the hope of inspiring others who are fighting their own battles.”
For more information on Jobbie’s “Pink Wobbly Breast Odyssey” initiative, go to www.jobbienutbutter.com .
