Children who have faced years of cancer treatment had an opportunity to take a break from medical routines and simply enjoy being kids during Kids Day Out 2026, held recently at the Caring Society Complex in Penang, Malaysia. The event, organised by Friends of Childhood Cancer Northern Malaysia (Foccan), brought together young cancer survivors, patients still undergoing treatment, and their families for a day filled with activities, entertainment, and community support.
Among the attendees was eight-year-old Shafi Mikael Mohd Sharul, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at the age of two. Shafi’s mother, Nurul Asmiera Marzuki, described the early symptoms that led to his diagnosis, including persistent fever, loss of appetite, and abdominal swelling. Following nearly two and a half years of chemotherapy and home care, Shafi’s treatment culminated in May when his chemotherapy port was removed. Nurul Asmiera noted the difficult side effects Shafi endured, including mood swings linked to steroid therapy and painful mouth ulcers, but affirmed that he was gradually returning to a normal childhood.
Thirteen-year-old Rais Rafael Rozaidi also participated in the event. Diagnosed with eye cancer at age three, Rais underwent chemotherapy and eventually had his right eye surgically removed. His mother, Nor Aishah Fatin Che Azmi, recounted the initial sadness Rais experienced but highlighted his adaptation to life with vision in one eye. A prosthetic has been fitted to his right eye to restore a natural appearance.
Another attendee was 13-year-old S. Anusha Jane, who travelled from Kulim, Kedah, with her mother, V. Punitha Mitha. Anusha was diagnosed with bone cancer the previous year after swelling in her right leg was initially mistaken for a sports injury. An MRI at Penang Hospital confirmed the diagnosis, leading to nine months of chemotherapy followed by limb-sparing surgery. Although doctors expect her to regain normal walking ability, her mother explained that Anusha will likely have to forego some physical activities, including dancing and karate.
The day’s program featured a range of interactive events such as health screenings, stage performances, traditional game stations like can knock-down, slam dunk, and sand art, and educational displays by uniformed groups. Members of the Utara Bikers club provided children with gentle bike rides around the venue, contributed 150 special stickers for participants, and collectively donated RM1,500 to Foccan.
Opening the event, Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen emphasised the importance of seeing young cancer patients beyond their diagnoses. “Kids Day Out invites us to see them as children, not just patients,” he said. “They want to play, laugh, make friends and experience life just like any other child.”
Foccan’s adviser Dr Tan Eng Guan and president Maznah Tayib were also present to support the initiative aimed at bringing joy and normalcy to children affected by cancer.