KUCHING: The Kuching South City Council (MBKS) has taken a pioneering step in public health by becoming the first local council in Sarawak to instal Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in high traffic public areas.
MBKS Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, speaking at the launch of the AED at Stutong Market today, described the initiative which is part of the “Heart Safe City” campaign, as a significant milestone in the council’s ongoing mission to safeguard the lives of Kuching’s residents.
The installation of the AEDs was made possible through the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Kuching Central and the Rotary Club of Singapore East.
“We have installed five AEDs, but this is not just about placing devices in public spaces. It is about raising awareness, training the public, and ensuring these life saving tools are properly used,” said Wee.
The AED units have been installed at key locations throughout Kuching South which are at Taman Sahabat, Kenyalang Park Market, the MBKS Building, Stutong Market, and the MBKS Indoor Stadium. These areas were chosen because they are busy places where people live, gather and spend time every day.
To support the installations, MBKS will conduct training sessions with the Rotary Club to teach the public how to use the AEDs effectively.
“Awareness and training must go hand in hand. People need to know how to respond during an emergency, not just for their own loved ones, but for anyone in the community who may need help,” Wee emphasised.
He also urged residents and visitors to protect the AED units from vandalism or theft, stressing that every minute is crucial in a cardiac emergency.
The mayor also announced future plans to extend the project, including placing AEDs at Kenyalang Traffic Garden and Hui Sing Park.
“Let us work together to build a heart safe Kuching South, a city where every heartbeat matters and everyone plays a part in saving lives,” he added.
