Public reminded to take dengue awareness, prevention seriously

Sim (in yellow shirt) ‘spraying’ a giant dengue mosquito with a mock bottle of insecticide to symbolically launch the school’s dengue awareness campaign as school personnel and students look on.

By Nancy Nais

KUCHING, July 24: Members of the public including students are advised to exercise caution and care with dengue.

Due to the rising number of cases recorded in the state, Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said it is everyone’s responsibility when it comes to dengue prevention and awareness about it.


Speaking to students and teachers at SMK Bandar Kuching No. 1 today, he urged those who suspect they may have dengue fever or suspect someone is experiencing it, to seek immediate treatment.

“Do not wait when it comes to seeking treatment as it can be fatal. Go straight to the clinic, or hospital if you’re ill at night,” he said.

As of June this year, Sarawak has recorded a total of 924 dengue cases and one death, compared to 271 cases over the same period last year.

SMK Bandar Kuching No. 1 is participating in the National Anti-Dengue Competition, and they are one of the three schools selected to represent Sarawak.

“I applaud SMK Bandar Kuching No. 1 for the initiative to participate in this campaign because it is aimed at raising awareness and everyone in the community must work hand-in-hand to stop the widespread of dengue,” he said before officiating at the school’s anti-dengue campaign.

Speaking to reporters after the event, school principal Sandy Wong said 40 students and 10 teachers are taking part in the competition.

“They have to do a five minute video to showcase their creativity, encourage community engagement towards prevention and relay information about dengue awareness.

The team has been moving around the city, creating live action videos with their own visual effects to create a unique piece which they must submit by Aug 31 to the Ministry of Education. — DayakDaily