WHO is seeking for a qualified, eligible and competent proposer for the Community-Based Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative in Sarawak, Malaysia Expanding access to Cervical Cancer screening through HPV-DNA Self-Sampling in underserved communities in Sarawak state, Malaysia. Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern in Malaysia and is among the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women. Despite the availability of effective prevention strategies, namely HPV vaccination and early detection through screening, coverage remains suboptimal, particularly in East Malaysia. This disparity highlights an urgent need to expand screening and awareness, particularly in reaching underserved communities where access to healthcare facilities may be limited. Sarawak records a disproportionately high cervical cancer incidence (approximately 12.1 per 100,000 women), exceeding the national average (Age standardized incidence rate of 10/100,000 women). Contributing factors include geographic barriers, limited access to healthcare facilities in rural and remote areas, cultural sensitivities around pelvic examinations, and low awareness of preventive services. Effective approaches, such as HPV DNA self‑sampling, offer a promising solution to overcome these barriers. Self‑sampling is acceptable and accessible, and has been shown to significantly increase screening uptake, particularly among underserved populations. This project aligns with the WHO Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy (90-70-90 targets) and supports Malaysia’s national commitment toward cervical cancer elimination. (90% of girls fully vaccinated with HPV vaccine by age 15; 70% of women screened with a high-performance test by 35 years of age, and again by 45 years of age; and 90% of women identified with cervical disease receive treatment and care). Please use the subject line WHO Bid Reference 2026/WCO/MYS/001/297567 in all email submissions. Proposals must be submitted to
[email protected] and
[email protected] no later than 24 April 2026.
