By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 18: The Sarawak government has recently approved the establishment of an interventional radiology service at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) aimed at providing more effective treatment for stroke patients.
In a news report by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg announced that the approval also includes funding for vital equipment, such as catheters, enabling specialists to perform advanced procedures in stroke management.
He stated that the move was essential, as Sarawak encounters around 1,000 stroke cases each year.
“With the expansion of these services, we are positioned to save up to 500 lives each year through effective stroke treatment,” he said in a speech delivered by Sarawak Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, during the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Malaysian Society of Interventional Radiology (MYSIR) 2024 here today.
The Premier further emphasised the Sarawak government’s commitment to advocating for thrombectomy services, a key part of improving healthcare in the State.
“This is not merely a technical achievement but a step forward in ensuring that every corner of our region has access to advanced, high-quality healthcare.
“It is a reminder of the responsibility we carry—not just to push the boundaries of medicine but to make sure that these breakthroughs are accessible to everyone, especially in regions where healthcare services may be more challenging to deliver,” he added.
Present at the event were the Deputy Director of Health for Sarawak, Dr Azlee Ayub; President of the Malaysian Interventional Radiology Association, Professor Dr Naveen Rajadurai; Immediate Past President of the Malaysian Society of Interventional Radiology, Dr Nur Adura Yaakup; Organising Chairperson of MYSIR 2024, Dr Dhayal Balakrishnan; and other distinguished guests. — DayakDaily
