Petronas Continues Support for Cancer Research

KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- Petronas has contributed RM5 million (US$1.6 million) to the Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation (Carif), signifying its continuous support towards the foundation's cancer research efforts in Malaysia. It was presented by Petronas chief operating officer Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin to Carif Board of Trustees chairman Ahmad Tunku Yahaya in a ceremony attended by former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and wife Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali on Monday. Carif was established in 2000 with the objective of conducting research in three major areas: identification of key genetic changes in Asians with breast cancer; finding new ways to diagnose and treat oral and nasal cancer; and development of new cancer therapy using Malaysia's biodiversity. At the ceremony, Petronas senior general manager of group corporate affairs division Mohammad Medan Abdullah said the contribution would help towards funding Carif's expenditure and endeavours in fighting against cancer for the five-year period. Petronas has been one of Carif's anchor donors since 2000 and has to date contributed RM13.5 million (US$4.32 million) to the foundation. "Our contribution today reflects Petronas' continuous commitment towards cancer research efforts as we are aware that cancer occurrences have increased in Malaysia, where more than 25,000 new cases are recorded every year," Mohammad Medan said. "I hope the contribution would help in Carif's long-term efforts in fighting against the disease -- one of the leading causes of death worldwide." Carif has won various international and national awards for its cancer research efforts and has made a number of major discoveries. -- BERNAMA