By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Dec 3: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called for Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) to be made mandatory under the Sarawak Building Ordinance 1994, which is set to be amended in the near future.
Dr Sim, who also serves as the Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, highlighted the importance of having AEDs readily available in public spaces, particularly in light of Sarawak’s high prevalence of heart disease.
“AED devices have been widely available for 20 years in many parts of the world. In advanced countries, having AEDs in public places is compulsory. Since heart disease is a major issue in Sarawak, these devices could save lives,” Dr. Sim stated.
He made the remarks today after witnessing the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kuching City South Council (MBKS) and the Rotary Club of Kuching Central. The event also marked the launch of AED devices at Taman Sahabat, Jalan Song.
Dr. Sim added that the Sarawak Attorney General’s Chambers had assured him the updated ordinance would be tabled next year.
“The current building ordinance is outdated, and substantial changes are necessary to meet present and future needs. These changes are crucial as we plan for Sarawak’s progress towards becoming an advanced state by 2030,” he explained.
One of the proposed updates includes making AEDs a legal requirement in public and government buildings, shopping malls, recreational facilities, gated communities, and other public spaces.
“We want AEDs to be part of the policy and mandatory in public areas to improve emergency response and save lives,” he said.
Also present at the event were MBKS Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng, Deputy Mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili, Rotary Club of Singapore East Vice President Clara Tan, and Rotary Club Kuching Central President Roland Phang.
Dr Sim emphasised that the inclusion of AEDs in public facilities would be a step forward in enhancing public health infrastructure in Sarawak.
“We must align our policies with global standards to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens,” he concluded. — DayakDaily
