Bali Pink Ribbon was founded by Gaye Warren, a British breast cancer survivor who has lived in Indonesia for more than two decades. Following her treatment and her husband’s retirement, the couple relocated from Jakarta to Bali, where Warren became actively involved with the Bali International Women’s Association (BIWA).
Together with two friends, Warren persuaded the chairperson of BIWA to initiate a fundraising campaign focused on breast cancer awareness in Bali. Drawing inspiration from the Pink Ribbon Walks she had experienced in the United Kingdom, Warren helped establish the prototype for the first Bali Pink Ribbon Walk in 2009. The event has since evolved into a central fundraising initiative tailored to fit the culture and traditions of Bali.
Growing Support and Expanding Awareness
Since its inception, the group of volunteers managing the campaign has steadily grown, attracting both local and international support. Substantial funds have been raised through the Pink Ribbon Walks and other related events, with major sponsorships coming from Australia and, more recently, Singapore.
The campaign’s growing visibility has also encouraged more local sponsors to participate. According to the foundation, media coverage has played a crucial role in promoting public awareness and enhancing understanding of the importance of early detection and treatment.
Breast Cancer Statistics in Indonesia and Bali
According to the World Health Organization, the global prevalence of breast cancer reached 6.3 million cases across 140 countries by the end of 2012. In Indonesia, the Ministry of Health reported that breast cancer remains the leading cause of death among women, with an estimated mortality rate of 21.5 per 100,000 people. Approximately 70 percent of these cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
In Bali Province alone, the prevalence rate was recorded at 1,233 cases in 2013. The majority of patients are women between the ages of 30 and 40. However, health experts note that early detection significantly improves survival rates, with around 98 percent of patients living more than five years following timely diagnosis and medical treatment.
Establishing the Bali Pink Ribbon Foundation
Building upon the initial success of the awareness walks, the Bali Pink Ribbon Foundation was formally established, along with the creation of the Breast Cancer Support Centre. Warren expressed her gratitude for the extensive volunteer efforts and professional assistance from the medical community, as well as support from both local and national government bodies.
She also acknowledged the contribution of her co-founder, the late Dr. Endrawati Manuaba, in helping bring the foundation’s vision to life. Both founders hoped the charity would continue to attract more Balinese volunteers, increase financial backing, and gain greater recognition from communities across the island.
Warren’s vision remains clear: “Everyone has a mother, and no woman should be robbed of the opportunity of being with her children and grandchildren.”
Continuing the Campaign: “Steps of Hope”
This October, the Bali Pink Ribbon Foundation will collaborate with Sudamala Resort Sanur, Yayasan Sudamala Bumi Insani, and Uma and Leopold for a special awareness event titled Steps of Hope. The morning walk in Sanur aims to continue promoting breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection.
Through ongoing partnerships and public engagement, the foundation continues to expand its reach and uphold its mission of saving lives through education, awareness, and community involvement.
