MIRI: The prevalence of tuberculosis (TB) in Sarawak remains alarmingly high, ranking third in Malaysia in the number of cases.
Deputy Minister of Health Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said last year Sarawak recorded 3,177 cases of TB, behind Sabah’s 5,814 cases and Selangor which recorded 5,631 cases.
Speaking at a TB awareness campaign held here on Saturday he said this high incidence underscores the urgent need for increased public education and awareness about the disease.
“The list of tuberculosis cases in Sarawak is a stark reminder of the challenges we face,” Lukanisman said.
“Education and awareness are crucial in helping the public understand TB and the importance of early detection and treatment.”
The campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of TB, prevention methods, and the significance of timely treatment, is part of a broader effort to combat the disease.
Lukanisman emphasised the necessity of these initiatives to improve public knowledge and promote effective TB care.
In conjunction with World TB Day, which this year carries the slogan “Yes! We Can End TB”, the campaign seeks to inspire collective action towards eradicating TB.
“This slogan brings enthusiasm and confidence that with joint efforts, we will be able to end the TB epidemic in our country and around the world,” Lukanisman stated.
The event also saw the participation of Health Divisional Officer Dr P Raviwharmman Packierisamy, Jalan Merbau Clinic Health Chairman Health Panel Dato Goh Kien Ping, Anti-Tuberculosis Association Sarawak (ATAS) President Datin Louise Luncha Kanyan, and Jalan Merbau Health Clinic’s Family Physician Dr Norafini Salamon.
