KUCHING: A Christmas outreach initiative at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) here translated recent urban health data into community-level action, focusing on nutrition, inclusion and preventive health.
The Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance said the initiative was guided by insights from the public symposium, “Daripada Data Kepada Tindakan: Kesihatan Di Bandar Kuching”, organised by the Galen Centre for Health and Social Policy, and the release of the Bandar Kuching Health Report.
It said the report pointed to rising urban health challenges, including diabetes, stroke, heart disease and kidney disease, which are linked to dietary habits, lifestyle factors, food environments, access to healthcare and broader social conditions.
“Guided by these findings, the Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance worked with the Xmas Carolers of Faith Methodist Church, the Society for Cancer Advocacy and Awareness Kuching (SCAN), members of the local community, and persons with disabilities to carry out a Christmas outreach at SGH.
“Through carolling and distribution activities, the initiative reached more than 500 patients, nurses and healthcare workers across several wards, including the Orthopaedic Ward, RTU and Palliative Care, the Emergency Department’s Green Zone and seating area, as well as the Children and Oncology wards,” it said in a statement.
Recipients also received freshly harvested microgreens grown at the Sarawak OKU Skills Development Association (SOSDA) facility in Boulevard Kuching. The microgreens were harvested seven days after planting.
The alliance said the produce was nutrient-dense, chemical-free and suitable for cultivation in limited urban spaces with minimal resources, making it accessible for households and communities.
Beyond nutrition, the microgreens initiative also created opportunities for inclusive livelihoods, particularly for PWD involved in the growing and harvesting process.
“By translating data into action, this initiative shows how community-led efforts can strengthen health, resilience and overall well-being,” said SCAN representative Chris Cheng.
The Sarawak CSO-SDG Alliance said community-based initiatives that link nutrition, inclusion and livelihoods will remain important as Sarawak continues to address the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
The alliance and its partners also conveyed their Christmas wishes to patients and healthcare workers, and said similar efforts would continue in the coming year.
