By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Sept 6: The launch of the Sarawak Disease Surveillance Programme (DSP) is seen as a strategic move to strengthen public health preparedness in rural areas and among communities at risk of infectious diseases.
According to the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), the programme was launched by Sarawak Deputy Minister for Transport (Riverine and Marine) and Tasik Biru assemblyman, Dato Henry Harry Jinep, at the Kampung Serasot Community Hall in Bau on Friday (Sept 5).
In his speech, he stressed that early detection is crucial in protecting public health and ensuring more effective management of infectious diseases.
“By collecting baseline data on human, animal, and environmental health, this programme will serve as the foundation for stronger public health strategies.
“This approach will help reduce the burden of diseases while supporting evidence-based public health policies,” he said.
He also extended his appreciation to the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) as the main organiser. He expressed gratitude to government agencies, welfare organisations, and community leaders who contributed to the programme’s success.
As part of the initiative, DSP also provided free health screenings for the local community, including tests for tuberculosis, intestinal worm infections, blood pressure, blood sugar, iron levels, as well as HPV screenings for women aged 35 to 65, in collaboration with the ROSE Foundation.
The programme, which attracted over 300 participants, is expected to raise health awareness, encourage active community involvement, and contribute to achieving the vision of a Healthy and Prosperous Sarawak. — DayakDaily
