KOTA SAMARAHAN: Sarawak Heart Centre and Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) received new medical equipment contributions to strengthen cardiology services and patient safety.
The contributions comprised an echocardiology colour Doppler ultrasound system worth RM448,000, along with two electrocardiogram machines valued at RM4,200 and two vital signs monitors costing RM5,676.
The equipment was donated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while SGH received two defibrillators worth RM42,000 from Dayacop Security Services Sdn Bhd and the Sarawak Heart Foundation.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the new equipment would boost the hospitals’ ability to manage cardiac emergencies and speed up treatment.
“It is not about the cost, but about saving lives. This machine will serve tens of thousands of patients, not just a few.
“Today is about sincerity, a genuine effort to help, knowing that we face big challenges with equipment, funding and manpower. But if everyone plays their part, the community will benefit.”
He told reporters this during the handover ceremony of the equipment at Sarawak Heart Centre here on Tuesday (Sept 30).
Dr Sim, who is Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, asserted that community support had allowed the hospitals to grow despite limited federal funding, citing Sarawak Heart Centre’s recognition in Newsweek’s Asia-Pacific Top 100 hospitals.
He said the partnership model showed that every form of support helped strengthen healthcare services and benefit patients.
“Every contribution, big or small, makes an impact. Even artwork by Sarawak Artists Society inside the hospital helps create a positive environment for patients.”
On the same note, Elder Roger Walker of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints said the contributions would benefit about 14,000 Sarawakians each year — nearly 30 per cent of the state’s heart patients, including those from rural areas.
He explained that the church had been active in humanitarian work worldwide since 1974.
“The church has contributed in areas such as education, emergency response, vision care, clean water, and especially healthcare, supported by humanitarian funds from 17.5 million members worldwide.
“We deeply value our relationship with government officials and other leaders who help those in need.”
