Sarawak to pioneer ‘maggot therapy’ to treat chronic wounds

Wee (second left) during the MoU signing ceremony between the MSWCP and UNIMAS at the 3rd D-Foot International Wound Conference 2025 in Kuching on May 9, 2025. Photo: TVS
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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 9: Sarawak is set to become one of the first in the region to implement maggot therapy in a systematic and controlled manner in the treatment of chronic wounds, especially diabetic foot ulcers.

In a TVS news report, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the implementation of the initiative will commence through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Malaysian Society of Wound Care Professionals (MSWCP) and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) today.

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“Maggot therapy is a science-based, cost-effective treatment method that has been proven to accelerate healing, especially in chronic diabetic wounds.

“Its implementation will be assisted by researchers and educators from the Institute of Medical Research (IMR) to ensure clinical quality and adherence to best practices,” he said.

His speech was read by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng at the opening ceremony of the 3rd D-Foot International Wound Conference 2025 here today.

Dr Sim stressed that Sarawak is currently building a patient-focused, community-driven, and professionally supported wound care system, while calling for all parties to work together to reduce amputations, restore mobility and improve the quality of life of patients.

He also praised the continuous efforts of MSWCP through the Free Home Nursing Welfare Programme, which has reached the most vulnerable communities throughout the State.

“MSWCP not only provides free wound care directly to patients’ homes but also distributes wound care kits nationwide and abroad.

“It proves their commitment to empowering wound care not only in Malaysia, but also globally,” he added.

Maggot therapy, also known as maggot debridement therapy (MDT), is a medical treatment where live, disinfected fly larvae (maggots) are placed on a wound to remove dead or infected tissue, thus aiding in wound healing.

It’s a type of biotherapy used to debride and disinfect wounds, particularly those that are chronic, non-healing, or resistant to conventional treatments. — DayakDaily

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