Preventing heart disease: Joint effort vital in making healthy lifestyle choices accessible to all

Wee (seated centre) in a photo with other distinguished guests and attendees of the the 3rd Borneo Cardiac Meeting at Srawak Heart Centre on Oct 3, 2024.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Oct 4: The healthcare sector, governments, and communities must work together to make healthy choices easier, more accessible and sustainable for the citizens in order to encourage better lifestyle habits and prevent diseases, including cardiovascular conditions.

Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng emphasised that cardiovascular disease has long been a leading cause of death in Malaysia, but undoubtedly, prevention is the key to managing risk factors through better lifestyle choices.

“Cardiovascular disease is increasingly common and can lead to death, a sobering reality that impacts countless families, including within our own communities.

“As we gather here today, I want to emphasise a message that cannot be overstated: Prevention is critical. Heart disease is preventable, and we have the power to make a significant impact through the daily choices we make,” he said.

Wee, who represented Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, made these remarks when officiating the 3rd Borneo Cardiac Meeting 2024 held in conjunction with the World Heart Day at the Sarawak Heart Centre on Thursday (Oct 3).

He highlighted that adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with engaging in regular physical activity, would not only prevent heart disease but also improve overall well-being.

“But simply knowing this is not enough—we must ensure our communities are empowered to act. All sectors need to come together to make healthy, positive choices accessible and sustainable for everyone,” he said.

Wee reaffirmed MBKS’ commitment to supporting initiatives that promote heart health, pledging to work towards making Kuching a healthier city.

This includes fostering a conducive environment, raising awareness of healthy eating through public campaigns, and improving access to health services.

“This event reminds us of the urgent need to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease and its prevention. I urge healthcare professionals and the wider community to spread and share the message that a healthy heart is within everyone’s reach,” he concluded. — DayakDaily