The event marked the first of its kind by the Indonesian community in Qatar, aiming to raise cancer awareness, promote early detection, and strengthen support systems for patients and survivors through collaboration with the Qatar Cancer Society.
The Indonesian community in Qatar marked a significant stride in public health outreach with the successful hosting of the Indonesian Cancer Awareness (ICA) event at the Qatar Cancer Society headquarters on Friday.
This marked the first cancer awareness initiative of its kind by the Indonesian diaspora in Qatar. The event was jointly organised by the Indonesian Embassy in Doha, the University of Indonesia Alumni Association in Qatar (ILUNI UI Qatar), and the Qatar Cancer Society, with additional support from PERMIQA and the Indonesian Support System Group.
The event was attended by Ridwan Hassan, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Qatar, who highlighted the importance of community and family support in health initiatives.
“The availability of a strong support system, alongside invaluable backing from family members, is very critical,” he said, stressing the value of partnerships in improving cancer education and outreach.
Dr Hadi Abu Rasheed, Scientific Advisor and Head of the Professional Development and Research Department at QCS, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to such partnerships.
He stated, “In Qatar Cancer Society, we wholeheartedly embrace meaningful partnerships that enhance cancer awareness and education,” and expressed optimism for continued collaboration with the Indonesian community.
The initiative was led by Dr. Ken Lestariyani Sulis, a health educator and facilitator for cancer support systems. Dr. Ken emphasised the need to raise health literacy among Indonesians in Qatar while empowering cancer survivors to share their experiences. She believes these personal stories play a powerful role in fostering a stronger, more supportive community and advancing advocacy.
Held under the theme “Support, Share, Survive: Community Action Against Cancer,” the event provided attendees with information on cancer awareness, early detection, treatment options in Qatar, and the importance of emotional and community support.
The programme also addressed the health risks associated with smoking, aligning with the global message of World No Tobacco Day observed on 31 May.
Around 100 people took part in the event, including cancer patients, survivors, healthcare professionals, alumni, and members of the broader Indonesian community. Participants engaged in panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and received free medical services from QCS, including dietary consultations, health check-ups, and private consultations with medical specialists.
Speakers at the event included Dr. Ahmed Abdallah from Hamad Medical Corporation, who shared medical insights on cancer prevention; QCS nutritionist Batoul Ibrahim, who addressed the role of diet and lifestyle in prevention; and Heba Nassar, QCS Head of Education, who discussed public awareness and the need for community involvement.
One of the event’s highlights was the personal testimony of Ir. Yuli Nurcahyo MT, an Indonesian cancer survivor, who shared his journey of resilience.
Sudirman Rasmin Nurhadi CBP CCP, Chairman of ILUNI UI Qatar, described the event as a milestone in diaspora-led health advocacy. “This event not only informed and empowered attendees but also established a foundation for ongoing collaboration between community-based organisations and institutional partners such as QCS,” he said, expressing gratitude for the support of the Indonesian Embassy and QCS.
This collaborative effort reflects a shared goal to enhance health literacy, encourage compassion, and build robust support systems within the Indonesian community in Qatar. It also contributes to global efforts to reduce cancer through education, early detection, and lifestyle changes, particularly tobacco control.
