Participants go under the razor as Go Bald 2018 kicks off

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The first group of cancer survivors and parents show off their shaved heads at Go Bald Kuching 2018.

KUCHING: Ten years in and the atmosphere was no less emotionally charged when the hairdressers started shaving locks of hair from the first round of participants as Go Bald 2018 kicked off at CityOne Megamall here yesterday.

All had personal brushes with cancer – either as the parent of a child with cancer, or as a survivor. Organised by Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS), Go Bald is the largest and first head-shaving charity event in Sarawak.

It is also an annual fundraising campaign for SCCS, accounting for 60 per cent of its annual operating cost, said president Jocelyn Hii.

Two-time cancer survivor Dayang Zubaidah Abang Ariffin (seated), 18, and a young friend flash peace signs after her shave.

“Since its formation in 1999, SCCS has supported more than 1,100 children and their families through various services provided,” she said in her speech, adding that SCCS hopes to raise RM1 million this year and get 1,200 participants.

Go Bald will be heading to Permaisuri Imperial City Mall, Miri on May 13; Delta Mall, Sibu on May 20; and Timers Square Megamall, Bintulu on May 27.

In addition, various corporate and educational organisations have organised satellite shaves to show support and raise funds for the children. Because of this, the venue for this year’s Go Bald was not as overwhelmingly packed as past years’ events, SCCS treasurer Gary Ho told The Borneo Post. Ho was one of the first on the hot seat this year, making it his ninth shave.

“The staff at SCCS made me keep my hair the last three weeks so that there’s something to shave today,” he quipped, pointing out that he kept his head shaved since his first Go Bald.

The scene onstage as the group consisting of SCCS staff and volunteers join the ranks of newly-shaved.

In the last eight years, Go Bald has raised over RM17 million and shaved 7,500 participants across four cities in Sarawak.

Go Bald 2018 was made possible by venue sponsor CityOne Megamall, official media partners ERA FM, MY FM and Hitz FM, official photographer Mick Long Bridal Studio, official event coverage The Shots photography and 98s videography, photo print support by Epson, official hair salons Ray’s Salon and Hair Plus, activity sponsor Maison Monica Hair and Beauty Academy, event partner TruEvents, printing partner Lip Soon Outdoor Media, event supporters Digi, Everise and Shine Pharmacy.

For the latest updates, visit the website gobald.my or their Facebook page at fb.me/GoBald. Those who are interested in holding satellite shaves can find out how by calling SCCS on 082-686276 or by emailing [email protected].