By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 8: Sarikei residents are generally healthy, but early signs of rising diabetes cases are a concern, says Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said this was based on feedback from doctors in Sarikei Division, whom he had consulted on the health condition of local residents.
“I asked the doctor here in Sarikei about the health screening results among the people, and she said that, on average, the people of Sarikei are generally healthy.
“But there is a ‘but’. She said, ‘Yang Amat Berhormat, there are signs that diabetes is increasing’,” he said during the Sarawakku Sayang programme for Sarikei Division today, which was broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS).
Abang Johari said the trend meant Sarikei needed to prepare additional dialysis capacity to ensure patients could receive treatment locally instead of travelling to other areas.
He said he had been informed of a proposal to add 10 dialysis machines at the hospital in Sarikei.
“Len mentioned that we could add 10 machines in Sarikei. They can be placed at the hospital, adding dialysis machines so that those who suffer from diabetes do not have to travel far,” he said.
At the same time, Abang Johari urged residents to take greater care of their diet and maintain an active lifestyle to safeguard their health.
“Living a long life means nothing if we are sick. But if we live long and can serve the people and humanity, then, alhamdulillah, our rewards will increase,” he said.
Abang Johari also shared that he had sought feedback from doctors during previous visits to other divisions, with health screenings in Kapit showing high cholesterol levels among residents, while screenings in Sibu indicated a high prevalence of obesity. — DayakDaily
