On my birthday 2 weeks ago I was invited by Estée Lauder to be a part in witnessing the illumination of Pusat Sains Negara. Without even need to think for a sec if I should attend or not, I immediately RSVP-ed myself though the electronic RSVP button in the email invitation.

In conjunction with the global Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Awareness (BCA) Campaign, the charity walk and landmark illumination are a part of the month-long activities held annually by the Company to educate women in Malaysia about the need for early detection and treatment of breast cancer. The campaign also aims to raise awareness of the disease as well as fund raising towards cancer research.

This year’s theme is Courage. Believe in a world without breast cancer. Know we’re here until it’s true also celebrates it’s 20th anniversary, the life and legacy of beloved founder, Mrs. Evelyn H. Lauder. This tagline highlights the Company’s ongoing commitment to defeating breast cancer and to celebrate the unwavering commitment and tremendous courage of the late Evelyn H. Lauder.

Soon after arriving at the media centre, the illumination event started with Jojo Struys as the host for the night.

The stage was handed over to Mr. Paul Slavin; Managing Director, Estée Lauder Companies for a welcome speech.

From Mr. Paul Slavin, the mic was then handed to Y. Bhg. Prof. Datin Paduka Dr. Khatijah Bt Mohd Yusof; Deputy Secretary General (Science), Ministry of Science, Technology & Innovation for a welcome speech as well.

All the VIPs were then invited to the front of the stage for a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Just when the illumination was about to start, the lights were turned off. Everyone stood up and focus on Pusat Sains Negara. The feeling that I had standing there is indescribable by words. I was excited, over-whelming and sad thinking about those that are battling with the disease. My thoughts that time were with my aunt who is still battling with various of cancer after diagnosed with breast cancer.

We stood there for a few minutes and nothing happen. Then a video popped up on the big LCD TV on the stage and we all watched it.

This is it!

I focus back to Pusat Sains Negara waiting anxiously. A spot light emerge.

The single spot light then become 3 spot lights with pink ribbon lighting movement on the building. It’s very hard to capture the pink ribbon picture as it’s very light in color and it’s moving. But I managed to capture it 🙂

The building is more brighter with a little background lighting. Pink ribbon is more visible.

The illumination of Pusat Sains Negara is in place and complete!

Such a beautiful sight.

Everyone is so jolly and active that no one wants to leave the place after the illumination.

Estée Lauder Companies Malaysia has been advocating this campaign since 1996. The Company has distributed more than a million Breast Self Examination instructional cards and pink ribbons in the past 16 years and has donated RM2.75 million to this cause to beneficiaries like the Breast Cancer Welfare Association, The Cancer Research Initiatives Foundation, The College of Radiology Malaysia and the National Cancer Society Malaysia.

I wore a simple pink top that night.

Remember. Prevention is better than cure. Do support this month-long campaign by wearing a pink ribbon.