Growing kidney patient numbers straining facilities

SERIAN: Sarawak is in urgent need of additional dialysis facilities due to a growing number of patients with kidney ailments each year, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Sim who is Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister said Sarawak records an increase of about 300 new kidney patients annually, but existing facilities are unable to fully accommodate the growing demand.

He stressed that the state requires at least 300 new dialysis beds and 50 additional dialysis machines each year to meet the need.

“Our philosophy is that we don’t want you to end up depending on a dialysis machine.

“It’s essential to take care of your health, if you don’t, who will?”

“Doctors and nurses can’t always be there for you. Ultimately, you are responsible for your own well-being,” he said.

He told reporters this after officiating at the Health Carnival in conjunction with the Sarawak-level Nutrition Month and the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat (ANMS) 2024 at the Serian Conference Centre on today (Sept 21).

Dr Sim highlighted the educational value of such carnivals, where the public is exposed to important health information.

He commended the organisation of such events, noting that they provide a wealth of knowledge and emphasised the importance of absorbing all the health-related information shared.

“As I’ve said before, reducing sugar intake is key. One less teaspoon of sugar is enough, less is better, and none is the best,” he said.

“Heart disease remains the number one killer in Malaysia, and conditions like diabetes not only increase the risk of heart disease but can also lead to certain types of cancer.

“Ultimately, the most important thing our people can do is maintain cleanliness and take care of their families. A healthy population makes for a healthy nation,” he said.

Also present were Serian MP Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem, Sarawak State Health Department (JKNS) director Dr Veronica Lugah, Serian Resident Caroline Cleophas Joseph and Serian Division Medical Officer Dr Majorie Ensayan Junting.