Colorectal Cancer Tops Male Cancer Cases in Malaysia, Hitting Younger Adults

A trace of blood in the stool, a mild stomach ache, and a persistent urge to pass motion. Most Malaysians would dismiss these as haemorrhoids or a simple stomach upset

But these seemingly harmless symptoms are often the first warnings of colorectal cancer, Malaysia’s most common cancer among men and the second most common among women, warned Dr. Jothinathan Muniandy, a consultant general and colorectal surgeon at Oriental Melaka Straits Medical Centre.

According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2017–2021, about 70 percent of colorectal cancer cases are only diagnosed when the disease has already reached stage three or four. “By then, treatment becomes tougher and survival drops sharply. This is a disease that can be prevented or cured if caught early,” stressed Dr. Jothinathan.

The data paint a worrying picture. Colorectal cancer now makes up nearly 10 percent of all cancer cases worldwide, and in Malaysia, its incidence is highest among the Chinese population, followed by Malays and Indians. Traditionally seen in older adults, cases are now increasingly appearing among younger Malaysians in their 20s to 50s, a trend that the expert describes as “deeply concerning and a sign of lifestyle and dietary shifts.”

Screening, he said, is the single most powerful tool in changing these outcomes. The immunochemical Faecal Occult Blood Test (iFOBT) and M2-PK stool tests are simple, affordable, and available at most clinics. 

“These non-invasive tests can detect hidden blood or enzyme markers long before symptoms arise. For those who test positive, a colonoscopy, the gold standard, allows doctors to both diagnose and remove any suspicious growths during the same session.”

While screening for average risk individuals is recommended from age 50, both the Ministry of Health Malaysia and the American Cancer Society have revised guidelines suggesting it begin as early as 45 years old, particularly due to rising cases in younger age groups. For those with family history, Dr Jothinathan advises starting at 40 years old, or ten years before the age their relative was diagnosed.

Despite widespread availability, uptake remains low, below 20 percent among eligible adults. Many Malaysians still avoid screening due to fear, stigma, or embarrassment. “People worry it will be painful, or they simply don’t want to talk about that part of their body. But the truth is, most of these tests are quick, painless, and can save your life,” he added.

According to the National Strategic Plan for Colorectal Cancer (2021–2025), early detection dramatically improves survival; about 75.8 percent of patients diagnosed at stage one live beyond five years, compared to just 17.3 percent for those at stage four. Yet, awareness remains the biggest barrier.

Government clinics and NGOs such as the National Cancer Society Malaysia and Colorectal Cancer Survivorship Society Malaysia (CORUM) currently offer free screening, but participation is voluntary. Dr. Jothinathan believes that integrating routine screening reminders into national health systems, similar to programmes in Japan, Singapore, and the UK would significantly boost early detection rates. 

Beyond cancer prevention, he stressed that colon health is central to overall well-being. A balanced diet high in fibre, fruits, and whole grains, along with regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management, all contribute to a healthy gut and body. 

“Your gut affects everything from your digestion to your mood and energy levels. A healthy colon truly reflects a healthy life,” the expert explained. 

He also urged general practitioners to normalise conversations about bowel health as primary care doctors are the first line of defence. 

The message is simple but urgent: listen to your body, get screened early, and don’t wait for symptoms. Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and curable, but only if caught in time.

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TDA Hands Over 64 ICP Projects Under Prasarana’s RM11.37 bil LRT3 Procurement

Technology Depository Agency Berhad (TDA) has officially handed over 64 completed Light Rail Transit Line 3 (LRT3) Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) projects worth RM11.37 billion to Prasarana Malaysia Berhad.

TDA, an agency under the Ministry of Finance, oversees and manages the implementation of ICP in government procurement.

The LRT3 project, awarded to Setia Utama LRT3 Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad, required the company to implement 64 key ICP initiatives alongside the railway construction from 2019 to November 2025.

The projects were delivered across five key sectors in line with Malaysia’s economic priorities; services, manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and green mobility.

Covering Chief Executive Officer of TDA Mohammad Rafidi Mat Dahan said this marks the successful completion of one of Malaysia’s largest ICP initiatives.

“It demonstrates how strategic government-linked projects can drive technology transfer, enhance local capabilities, and support sustainable economic growth. This achievement has enhanced skills, strengthened industries, and created long-term national value.”

“It sets a new benchmark for future government-linked projects,” he added.

The handover ceremony at Transport Expo Asia (TXA) 2025, held during the three-day event from 11–13 Nov 2025, was officiated by YBhg Datuk Hajah Norison Ramli, Under Secretary, Government Procurement Division.

Of these, 47 projects enhanced Prasarana’s operational efficiency, digital systems, and workforce capabilities, while 17 community and industry focused initiatives empowered SMEs, universities, and local vendors through technology adoption and sustainability programmes.

Building on these achievements, TDA has played a pivotal role in linking government, industry, and academia to ensure each ICP project delivers tangible outcomes in technology localisation, skills development, and market access, Mohammad Rafidi said.

The LRT3 ICP Programme reinforces Malaysia’s position as a leader in strategic industrial collaboration, providing a sustainable model for innovation, localisation, and national economic growth.

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GINTELL Showcases the Disney & Marvel Premiere Collection on 11.11 

GINTELL, Malaysia’s largest healthcare retail chain has successfully launched their S9 MAXX Massage Chair, the Limited-Edition Stitch Neck  Massager and held the Disney & Marvel Premiere Collection showcase at Glasshouse at Seputeh. The event took place on 11 November 2025 from 11am onwards and was attended by  GINTELL management, BYD management, Disney representatives, GINTELL ambassador,  media partners, key opinion leaders (KOLs), and other invited guests. 

The event began with a warm welcome from the emcee, followed by an exclusive video  highlighting the milestones of the GINTELL × Disney collaboration. GINTELL Management,  BYD Management, Disney representatives, and VIP guests were then invited on stage to  officially launch the GINTELL S9 MAXX Massage Chair. Following the launch, a full  GINTELL S9 MAXX Massage Chair was also showcased for the audience. The GINTELL S9  MAXX Massage Chair features AI-ROVO™ technology with 8 AI-Yoga Stretching  Programs that mimic cycling and riding motions for enhanced core strength and flexibility,  while its 4D Roller Balls automatically adjust to your body, with up to ±15 cm roller protrusion  for deep, precise relief. 

The event then proceeded with the GINTELL Grand Giveaway Finale, featuring the Top 10  finalists from its Parents’ Day Campaign where customers who spent a minimum of  RM3,000.00 were automatically entered into the lucky draw. One lucky winner walked away  with the Grand Prize – a brand-new BYD Sealion 7, while the remaining finalists won  GINTELL massage chairs and treadmills. 

For the second product launch, the event kicked off with a lively Hula Dance performance, after  which GINTELL Management, BYD Management, Disney representatives, and VIP guests  were once again invited on stage to officially launch the product, followed by a video preview of  the GINTELL Stitch Neck Massager. 

Alongside the launch, GINTELL presented the first Disney & Marvel Wellness Showcase,  marking another milestone in its ongoing collaboration with Disney that began in April 2024. The showcase was open to the public from 3.00pm to 8.00pm, where visitors had the chance to  experience the products, redeem free Limited Edition Marvel keychains, and capture  Instagram-worthy photos at the themed display area.

The showcase featured Limited-Edition Marvel and Disney Series Massage Chairs such as  the Spider-Man Massage Chair, Black Panther Wellness Chair, Iron Man Red Wellness  Chair, Iron Man Black Exclusive Massage Chair, Disney Mickey Fantasia Wellness Chair  and Disney Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Portable Wellness Massagers.  

GINTELL will continue to surprise customers with more exciting new launches and offers that  evolves with customers’ needs. Currently, shoppers can enjoy an exclusive Buy 1 Free 1  Promotion — get 2 massage chairs for the price of 1 starting from RM4,988.00 for a limited  time only.

For further enquiries or pre-orders, contact +60167500998, visit www.gintell.com, or  drop by the nearest GINTELL showroom today. 

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UNIQLO’s “The Heart of LifeWear” Initiative Brings Comfort to Over 26,000 Malaysians in Need

This year, a total of 15,500 new clothing delivered through partnerships with local non-government organisations 

Global apparel retailer UNIQLO continues its mission to make life better for all through the second year of its The Heart of LifeWear initiative, a global clothing donation programme that delivers the comfort of LifeWear to those who need it most. Now in its second year, the initiative continues its journey of care and connection by reaching more communities across Malaysia throughout October and November to our five NGO partners, UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency), Rotary Club of Kuching Central, Malaysia Relief Agency, Alpro Foundation, and Malaysian Red Crescent Sunflower Centre.

Since its introduction in 2024, The Heart of LifeWear has touched the lives of over 26,000 Malaysians through the donation of new UNIQLO clothing to underserved individuals and families facing hardship, helping to uplift their comfort, dignity, and confidence in everyday life.

Through these collaborations, a total of 15,500 pieces of cool and quick-drying UNIQLO AIRism clothing were distributed this year to refugees, longhouse communities in rural Sarawak, flood victims, underserved students, and children with special needs, offering comfort, dignity, and a reminder that small gestures can make a lasting difference.

Dawn Chow, Director of Sustainability and Corporate Public Relations, UNIQLO Malaysia, said: “This is our second year running The Heart of LifeWear, and we continue to be reminded of how powerful something as simple as clothing can be. Beyond practicality, clothing has the ability to restore comfort and dignity. Through this initiative, we hope to share that sense of care and hope with communities who need it most.”

This year’s The Heart of LifeWear also holds special meaning as UNIQLO Malaysia marks its 15th anniversary. The milestone reinforces the company’s deepening connection with Malaysians from opening its first store in 2010 to now giving back to the communities that have grown alongside the brand. The initiative embodies UNIQLO’s belief that LifeWear is not just about clothing, but about improving everyday life through comfort, thoughtfulness, and care.

"We’re very grateful for the donations. We rarely have the opportunity to receive high-quality clothing that offers such comfort," shared a mother from the Jakun tribe in Kg. Peta, who received clothing through MRA Johor. "This gesture of care and kindness means so much to our families. Receiving this gift really warms our hearts."

Taskiah, student from Rohingya Education Centre Gombak, shared: “This experience reminds me how powerful kindness can be. I’ll keep working hard in my studies, and one day, when I have enough rezeki, I want to help others who are less fortunate to bring them the same hope I feel today.”

As part of UNIQLO’s global commitment to donate one million pieces of clothing worldwide, The Heart of LifeWear reflects the brand’s belief that LifeWear is more than clothing, it is a way to improve lives. In Malaysia, the initiative continues to grow each year, expanding its reach to communities that need it most.

For more information about UNIQLO and its initiatives, please visit www.uniqlo.com/my. 

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