Dr Sim: Make full use of free health screenings run by SHF

KUCHING: The Local Government Ministry is advising members of the public to fully utilise the free health screening programmes run by the Sarawak Heart Foundation (SHF).

Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said the initiative was introduced by SHF in collaboration with the Health Ministry for the public to undergo health screening for early detection of illnesses.

“It is important for us to reach out to the community to create awareness among the public, especially young people, of the various aspects of heart ailments, early prevention and control of the disease.

“All these are important to prevent heart attack as heart disease is still the leading cause of death in Sarawak,” he said, adding that this was the first time SHF had included breast self-examination in its free health screening.

Dr Sim told this to reporters after officiating at a free health screening and breast self-examination programme held at Moyan Square in Batu Kawah yesterday.

“Members of the public can get the opportunity to undergo free health screening that includes checks on the body mass index (BMI), blood glucose, cholesterol level as well as health counselling conducted by medical personnel, from 10am to 5pm throughout the one-day event.”

Dr Sim also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to SHF and medical personnel from the Sarawak Heart Centre for conducting such event aimed at benefitting the public.

Meanwhile, Dr Sim also warned the public against gourmet excesses during Chinese New Year as it was crucial for them to take note of potential health risks.

“We want to enjoy, but please watch out for your health as there are potential health risks that one may be exposed to during the festive season.”

The SHF has been running similar events across the state over the past several years to increase public awareness of heart disease. The foundation also welcomes public support and donations to continue running these activities.

Moyan Square owner Henry Bong and mall manager Charlie Kho were also present at the programme yesterday.

All these are important to prevent heart attack as heart disease is still the leading cause of death in Sarawak. — Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian, Local Government Minister

Dr Sim (seated, right) gets his blood pressure checked, as (standing, from left) Kho and Bong look on. — Photo by Muhammad Rais Sanusi

Lee (fourth right) receives an invitation card for a Chinese New Year event from Lee Clan Association president Lee Ka Yun.