PETALING JAYA: Some 38,000 women are expected to benefit from the National Mammogram Subsidy Programme following an increase in its allocation to RM9 million under Budget 2027, up from RM8 million this year.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the programme, which has been running since 2007, aims to promote the early detection of breast cancer among Malaysian citizens and permanent residents who meet the eligibility criteria.
“Women’s health is not merely a personal matter. Healthy mothers and women are better equipped to manage their households, fostering stable, caring and harmonious family environments,” she said at the launch of the national-level PINK CaRe: Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign 2026 at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre today.
Nancy said the programme targets women aged between 40 and 70, with free mammogram screenings provided to those from households earning RM10,000 or less a month.
“Women from households earning more than RM10,000 a month may be eligible for a RM50 subsidy, subject to the programme’s terms and conditions.
“The National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) supports the initiative through 67 accredited panel mammogram centres nationwide,” she said.
Nancy said her ministry, together with LPPKN, remained committed to strengthening women’s healthcare and raising public awareness of the importance of early breast cancer detection.
She said Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed globally every October, served as a strategic platform to improve public understanding and encourage women to prioritise early screening, which could save lives.
“From the programme’s inception in 2007 until Sept 30 this year, a total of 595,143 women nationwide had undergone mammogram screenings, with 1,334 breast cancer cases confirmed.
“In Penang, 54,549 women had undergone screenings, resulting in the detection of 93 breast cancer cases.
“We must work together to raise awareness and improve access to breast cancer screening. Mammograms are a way of caring for ourselves and the people we love. Early detection can improve the chances of receiving effective treatment,” she added.