Petanak Market equipped with AED to strengthen emergency response for hawkers, visitors

1 hour ago 5
ADVERTISE HERE
Wee (second left), Pui (third left) and MBKS deputy mayor Dato Zaiedi Suhaili (fourth left) at the AED installation ceremony at Petanak Market on May 5, 2026.

Advertisement

By Dayangku Hidayatul
 
KUCHING, May 5: Petanak Market has been equipped with an automated external defibrillator (AED), strengthening emergency preparedness for hawkers and visitors in one of Kuching South’s busiest public spaces where rapid response can save lives.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the installation enhances readiness in high-traffic areas such as markets, where sudden medical emergencies can occur and immediate intervention is crucial.

“This is more than just equipment. It is a life-saving tool that can make the difference in critical moments,” he said during the installation ceremony today.

Advertisement

He noted that the initiative follows a similar AED deployment at Stutong Market, which received encouraging public response.

Through a collaboration between the Rotary Club of Kuching Central and the Rotary Club of Singapore East, Petanak Market becomes the sixth location to be fitted with an AED under their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme.

Wee stressed that public safety goes beyond physical infrastructure and also depends on preparedness and awareness in responding to emergencies.

“Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere, even in busy public spaces like markets. Having an AED readily available, and ensuring that people are aware of how to use it, is a critical step towards strengthening our emergency response system within the community,” he added.

He also encouraged traders and visitors to familiarise themselves with the device and its location.

Meanwhile, Rotary Club of Kuching Central president Pauline Pui said the initiative reflects a meaningful step in building a more prepared and responsive community.

“May it serve as a symbol of care, readiness, and hope — and may it never be needed, but always be ready,” she said. — DayakDaily

Read Entire Article