SINGAPORE – As cancer rates continue to rise in Singapore, significant contributions from philanthropic foundations and individuals are helping the Na
SINGAPORE – As cancer rates continue to rise in Singapore, significant contributions from philanthropic foundations and individuals are helping the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) provide comprehensive cancer care. At a charity gala on October 22 at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, benefactors pledged over S$27 million, adding to the more than S$14 million raised this year by NCCS’ Cancer Fund to support cancer patients, research, and education.
Among the top donations was a S$20 million pledge by Mrs. Margaret Lien, widow of philanthropist Lien Ying Chow, establishing the Lien Ying Chow Endowment Fund to provide financial and emotional support to vulnerable cancer patients and their families. Additional pledges included S$6.35 million from the Goh Foundation to develop the Goh Foundation Innovation in Supportive and Palliative Care Programme, and S$1 million from the New Century Foundation to advance cancer research and quality of care at NCCS.
Addressing guests at the gala, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat highlighted the growing impact of cancer in Singapore, with approximately 16,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While survival rates have risen significantly, Mr. Heng emphasized the need for community support alongside government subsidies, focusing on three essential pillars for cancer care: prevention, early diagnosis, and comprehensive post-treatment support. The NCCS Cancer Fund is key to providing this holistic approach for the 26,000 cancer patients it serves annually.
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