A TOTAL of 545 students from Chung Ling Private High School in Air Itam received free human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination shots, thanks to the support of the Chung Ling Alumni Association and the school’s board.
The vaccination drive, organised by the Chung Ling Alumni Association in collaboration with Pertubuhan Wanita Mutiara Pulau Pinang (PMWPP) and the National Cancer Society Malaysia (NCSM), aims to prevent HPV-related cancers and other sexually transmitted infections.
Tan Lean Kee, wife of Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and president of PMWPP, commended the parents for their support in allowing their children to receive the HPV vaccine.
“All this while, only girls aged 13 to 20 years have been administered the vaccine. However, starting from June 29 this year, the coverage has been extended to males aged nine to 26.
“The Gardasil 9 vaccine is administered once in a lifetime and protects against four types of HPV variants. The risk of cervical cancer can be reduced by more than 90% through this vaccine.
“PMWPP is one of the many non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Penang partnering with NCSM, and we are committed to supporting this vaccination campaign.
“The vaccination drive will continue until mid-2025, and I urge parents to take this opportunity to have their children vaccinated,” she said during her speech at Chung Ling Private High School in Air Itam today.
Tan expressed her hope to see a healthier society in the future.
Chung Ling Alumni Association president Datuk P’ng Lai Heng said was proud to organise the vaccination campaign alongside the co-organisers.
“This programme marks a significant milestone for the school and the community. The vaccine is crucial for the students’ health, and we are committed to their well-being,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Alissala Thian