(Miri 25th) Sarawak Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Sim Kui Hian stated that Sarawak, like many regions worldwide, has not been spared from the growing trend of diabetes and obesity.
He said that recent studies show that 15% of adults in Sarawak have diabetes, a figure that is astonishingly higher than the national average. Additionally, the obesity rate in Sarawak has nearly reached 30%, posing a severe risk to public health, healthcare systems, and economic productivity.
Sim Kui Hian made this statement at the opening of the World Diabetes Day dinner organized by the Malaysian Diabetes Association Miri branch. Since he was unable to attend, his speech was read by Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
He pointed out that these rising numbers clearly remind us of the urgent need for action. Unhealthy dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of awareness about preventive measures are the main reasons for this trend. However, I am proud to say that under the leadership of the Ministry of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, the Sarawak government has been actively addressing these challenges.
“The key initiatives implemented by the Ministry include the ‘Healthy Sarawak’ campaign, which aims to promote a healthier lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine health checks. These activities actively engage communities, schools, and workplaces across Sarawak.”
He said that the diabetes care and control program has been extended to inland clinics to ensure that people in remote areas receive education, screening, and treatment. We have also deployed mobile medical units to ensure no one is left behind.
He emphasized that combating diabetes and obesity is a shared responsibility. This meeting provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and strategic cooperation. I believe that the insights and solutions discussed at the meeting will pave the way for a healthier Sarawak and a brighter future.
“On behalf of the Sarawak government, I extend my deepest gratitude to the Malaysian Diabetes Association Miri branch, the organizing committee, and all contributors for their hard work in making this event a reality. Let us continue to work together to ensure that the burden of diabetes and obesity does not harm the health and well-being of our people.”
Sim Kui Hian made this statement at the opening of the World Diabetes Day dinner organized by the Malaysian Diabetes Association Miri branch. Since he was unable to attend, his speech was read by Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
He pointed out that these rising numbers clearly remind us of the urgent need for action. Unhealthy dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of awareness about preventive measures are the main reasons for this trend. However, I am proud to say that under the leadership of the Ministry of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, the Sarawak government has been actively addressing these challenges.
“The key initiatives implemented by the Ministry include the ‘Healthy Sarawak’ campaign, which aims to promote a healthier lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine health checks. These activities actively engage communities, schools, and workplaces across Sarawak.”
He said that the diabetes care and control program has been extended to inland clinics to ensure that people in remote areas receive education, screening, and treatment. We have also deployed mobile medical units to ensure no one is left behind.
He emphasized that combating diabetes and obesity is a shared responsibility. This meeting provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and strategic cooperation. I believe that the insights and solutions discussed at the meeting will pave the way for a healthier Sarawak and a brighter future.
“On behalf of the Sarawak government, I extend my deepest gratitude to the Malaysian Diabetes Association Miri branch, the organizing committee, and all contributors for their hard work in making this event a reality. Let us continue to work together to ensure that the burden of diabetes and obesity does not harm the health and well-being of our people.”
