39 longhouse residents to undergo cataract surgery
KUCHING: Thirty-nine residents from 20 longhouses at Jalan Bukut in Balingian will undergo visual rehabilitation for cataracts, which is coordinated by Sarawak Energy Bhd and volunteers from Mukah Hospital.
A mobile team of volunteers carried out preliminary screening to assess around 130 residents who are suffering from visual impairment over two days recently.
From the screenings, 39 residents were identified as having signs of cataracts and were referred for detailed examination in July.
Following the success of its first corporate social responsibility ‘Eye Vision Programme for Better Living in the Rural Community’ in Kapit and Baleh in 2017, Sarawak Energy also conducted similar preliminary eye screening in Sungai Asap and Murum in March this year.
“Cataracts diminish the quality of life and general functional living activities, and mainly affects more advanced age groups. This programme, which aims to help visual improvement of our communities, is a worthy social investment,” said SEB general manager (corporate social responsibility and sustainability) Jiwari Abdullah in a statement.
With cataract surgery becoming more accessible, he said Sarawak Energy was pleased to be able to extend this programme to the people in Balingian.
“Under the programme, the residents do not have to pay anything, and this can come as a relief for those who cannot afford treatments,” he added.
The CSR Eye Vision Programme for Better Living in the Rural Community was awarded Gold under Best Community Programme category at the 10th Annual Global CSR Awards held in Lombok, Indonesia last year.
The programme saw the utility company working together with the Ophthalmology Department of Sarawak, Klinik Katarak Malaysia and hospitals.
By going to the community, the outreach programme shortens waiting time for those requiring the operation.