KUCHING, May 2: Sarawak Energy has recently collaborated with Removing Obstacles to cervical ScrEening (ROSE) Foundation and Pertubuhan Komuniti Harapan Orang Ulu Kuching (PKHOUK) to hold the ‘Cervical Screening and Awareness Campaign’, which aims to enhance the health and well-being of women in the Baleh community.
According to a media release, the primary objective of this campaign is to reduce morbidity and deaths from cervical cancer by detecting treatable pre-cancerous lesions before their progression to cancer.
In addition, it allows for the early detection of cancer, leading to interventions that can lower mortality rates.
As part of the campaign, Sarawak Energy sponsored test kits for women from the Baleh and Kapit communities, while also providing logistical support for patients to undergo medical assessments and treatments at government hospitals.
A total of 101 screenings were conducted successfully in various locations including Kapit Hospital, SMK Baleh, Nanga Entawau, and Nanga Entelawan.
This encouraging turnout reflects the positive influence of the campaign to raise awareness and encourage action for women’s health across the Baleh and Kapit communities.
Sarawak Energy’s senior manager for Project Services, Sharina Bohari, underscored Sarawak Energy’s commitment to supporting community well-being, including health, by raising awareness about the imperative need for accessible healthcare within the Baleh community.
“This campaign is a call to action for the prevention of a disease that is the third-most prevalent cancer among women. By educating and enabling women in rural areas to participate in cervical screenings, we are not just enhancing health outcomes but also potentially saving lives,” she said.
Sarawak Energy’s Baleh HEP general manager Tan Hang Kiak emphasised that its activities went beyond providing reliable and affordable renewable energy as the company also strives to uplift the living standards of the communities in which they operate and actively address their specific needs.
“Our partnership with local communities directly supports our mission to empower women and enhance living standards. This initiative is a testament to our dedication in fostering sustainable development and underscores our belief in forming strategic alliances that drive positive change,” he added.
Sarawak Energy is extending the benefits of the Baleh HEP development to surrounding communities as part of the good practices outlined in the Hydropower Sustainability Standards. — DayakDaily
