Businesses and Communities Rally to Raise Over $1.2M at the Singtel–Singapore Cancer Society Race Against Cancer, Supporting Cancer Patients & Families

21 September 2025

The 17th Singtel-Singapore Cancer Society Race Against Cancer rallied more than 8,000 individuals to raise over $1.2 million in support of cancer care services across Singapore.

More than 8,000 participants laced up for the Singtel–Singapore Cancer Society Race Against Cancer (RAC) – the highest number in the annual race’s 17-year history. Together, the community raised $1.2M which will fund the Singapore Cancer Society’s (SCS) programmes spanning the continuum of cancer care – from outreach, screenings, financial aid, rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and home hospice service. The physical race, held today at Angsana Green, East Coast Park, was graced by Minister for National Development, Mr. Chee Hong Tat, who flagged off the start of the event.

Said Minister Chee: “Events like today’s Race Against Cancer bring the community together to remember those whom we have lost to cancer, honour the ones who survived, and support those whose fight continues. The support from family, friends, and the wider community is very important in the fight against cancer. The donations raised today will go a long way in helping and bringing hope to many cancer patients and their families. This truly reflects the Singapore spirit, with each of us playing a part to uplift and support those in need.”

Race Against Cancer: Rallying the Community
Organised by SCS since 2009, RAC has grown to become one of Singapore’s longest-standing charity runs and a rallying point for individuals and businesses committed to fighting cancer. Since its inception, RAC has raised more than $12 million to support cancer patients and their families.

Over the years, the race has expanded to include a virtual run component, a Parent–Child Fun Run, and a dedicated CEOs Against Cancer category to showcase corporate leadership and purpose in action. In honour of Singapore’s 60th anniversary (SG60), this year’s RAC featured a virtual 60KM challenge.

Mr. Tan Kwang Cheak, chief executive officer of Singapore Cancer Society said: “Race Against Cancer is more than just a run. It is a powerful platform for the community to rally together – survivors, caregivers, families, businesses, and partners – in our fight against cancer. This show of solidarity and “we-first” spirit reminds every patient and family that they are not alone and strengthens Singapore Cancer Society’s mission to minimise cancer and maximise lives.”

Businesses Driving Impact
Each year, RAC sees growing participation from Singapore’s business community, as companies engage employees in purposeful giving and team volunteering. This year’s race saw close to 300 teams participating, including various corporates.

Through RAC, title partner Singtel contributes $250,000 annually to the Singapore Cancer Society’s Help the Children and Youth Programme (HCYP), which supports children and youth whose lives have been affected by cancer. The funds provide home tuition, school allowance grants, family engagement activities, and an annual Achievement Awards to recognise academic progress. Over 17 years, this sustained partnership has enabled SCS to support more than 3,000 children and youth.

Ms. Aileen Tan, Singtel’s Group Chief People and Sustainability Officer, said, “As the title sponsor of the Race Against Cancer, we are heartened by the impact this annual run has made in improving the lives of cancer patients and their families as well as its success in bringing the community together. This year’s record turnout is a powerful show of solidarity and compassion that will give strength to those who need it most. We are also glad to be able to support many children and youth through our contributions over the years, and hope that our long-running partnership with the Singapore Cancer Society will continue advancing cancer care and a better future for all those affected by cancer.”

Other corporate partners also rallied behind the cause in diverse ways such as organising fundraisers, volunteering for the race, or even curating employee talks to promote cancer awareness. Collectively, businesses have extended their corporate social responsibility footprint to rally against a disease that will affect 1 in 4 Singapore residents in their lifetime.

“The workplace is an important partner in the fight against cancer. Singapore Cancer Society regularly works with corporates through meaningful volunteerism opportunities and workplace talks to raise awareness about cancer. By rallying behind initiatives like Race Against Cancer and promoting good health, businesses can play a pivotal role in creating workplaces that promote long-term wellness for all,” said Mr. Tan En, Director of Advancement and Partnerships at Singapore Cancer Society.