Focusing on Art Therapy: Cancer Day Unites the Bruneian Community

Published at Feb 05, 2026 10:36 am
(Bandar Seri Begawan, 5th) In conjunction with World Cancer Day, patients, caregivers, families, healthcare professionals, partners, and youth participants from the Brunei Cancer Centre and Jerudong Park Medical Centre gathered yesterday to take part in an event themed “United in Heart, Creating Uniqueness Together,” reaffirming the belief that while every individual’s cancer journey is unique, unity, care, and mutual support can provide strength.
The World Cancer Day event centered on art therapy, hosting a meaningful activity that brought the Brunei community together.

The event emphasized creative expression as both a supportive and therapeutic method, complementing holistic cancer care while also recognizing the resilience of patients and the dedication of caregivers who accompany them on this journey.
Dr. Jafaar, Brunei’s Minister of Health, Chairman, and Executive Director of Jerudong Park Medical Centre, attended the event as the guest of honor.
Norazlin, consultant and head of early detection and cancer prevention services, and also Chairperson of World Cancer Day 2026, emphasized in her speech the importance of respecting individual differences while fostering unity and building community.

She stated, “This event’s theme reminds us that while cancer may affect many of us, each person’s cancer journey is a deeply personal one.”
She highlighted innovative approaches to patient support and discussed the benefits of art therapy: “Art therapy is not only a means of expression but is also evidence-based. Research shows that structured art therapy can significantly reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, while improving patients’ overall well-being and quality of life.”
Accordingly, TBCC currently runs ongoing art therapy classes for patients to help foster social connections, empathy, and a more supportive care environment for patients, families, and caregivers.
A major highlight of the program was the patient sharing session, in which cancer survivors shared their treatment journeys, the care they received, and insights into life after cancer recovery. Their stories strongly remind the public about the importance of courage, hope, and gratitude, embodying the spirit of “United in Heart, Existing Because of Uniqueness” — different experiences gathering into collective strength.

To support patients’ emotional well-being, the program also incorporated expressive art performances to convey gratitude and unity. These included therapeutic instrumental and choral performances by Expression Music Academy and staff. Filled with care and respect, these performances conveyed encouragement, unity, and collective care through art.
The program also offered art therapy classes for patients, providing them with a safe and supportive space for reflection and emotional expression. In addition, a children’s art competition was held to raise awareness about cancer among the younger generation. Through coloring and painting, children learned about empathy, kindness, and the importance of supporting cancer patients.

Winners of the art competition were recognized at the event, which celebrated their creativity, participation, and meaningful expression. Some works were exhibited in a supporting art exhibition, and after the event, guests were invited to visit. The exhibition offered a space for reflection, sharing the stories and perspectives of patients and young participants through artistic expression.
The event also thanked the valuable support of sponsors and partners, whose contributions made the World Cancer Day event possible and reflected their shared commitment to patient-centered care and community well-being.
By joining hands to celebrate World Cancer Day 2026, JPM Medical Group and the Brunei Cancer Centre uphold the theme of “United in Heart, Creating Uniqueness Together,” strengthening collective care while respecting individual cancer journeys, and firmly believing that “compassion, creativity, and the power of community can promote healing.”

Author

Liew Yun Kim


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