KUCHING: The Sarawak government is committed to ending the scourge of tuberculosis (TB) by 2035, stresses Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 25,391 TB cases were reported in Malaysia in 2022.
“The estimated incidence rate of TB in Malaysia in 2022 stood at 97 cases per 100,000 individuals, as per the WHO.
“Meanwhile, Sarawak has a rate of 100.6 cases per 100,000 people, and Kuching Division has a rate of 77.6 cases per 100,000 people. Therefore, efforts to increase detection through early screening need to be enhanced.”
Dr Sim’s speech was read by Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi at the World TB Day celebration held recently.
He emphasised the essential role of family members, colleagues, employers, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) like the Sarawak TB Prevention Association (ATAS) in ensuring patients’ successful recovery through the provided treatment.
“High commitment from healthcare workers, as well as close cooperation from all government, private, and NGOs, are needed to achieve Malaysia’s goal of ending TB by 2035.”
The theme of the celebration, “Yes! We can end TB!” aimed to inspire and encourage top leadership, increase investment, adopt new WHO recommendations, embrace innovation, accelerate action, and promote collaboration across sectors to combat TB.
Also present were Sarawak Health Department director Dr Ooi Choo Huck; Deputy State Health Director for Public Health, Dr Rohani Mat Bah; president of the Malaysian TB Prevention Association, Masdah Enti; Kuching Division health officer Dr Majorie Ensayau and deputy president of the Sarawak TB Prevention Association, Douglas Rundi.
