Thursday, 10 July 2025

Sarawak needs to catch up on occupational health

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Dr Sim speaks during the launching of ACOH 2026 at his office in Wisma Bapa Malaysia. Also seen are ACOH 2026 organising chairperson Dr Abu Hasan Samad (left) and Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Permanent Secretary Datuk Sherrina Hussaini (right).

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KUCHING: Sarawak aims to make use of next year’s 24th Asian Congress on Occupational Health (ACOH) as a platform to build capacity and raise awareness on occupational health, particularly in smaller workplaces.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said the congress, which would be held from Aug 5 to 8, 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), was timely as the state looked to closing the gap in occupational health knowledge and training.

“Sarawak needs a lot of catching up on occupational health. People often think it only applies to big companies and industries, but it should be part of every workplace.

“Issues such as mental health and wellness have become mainstream concerns that can no longer be ignored in today’s working environment.

“We need to fill the gaps, train more people, and keep up with developments, especially in the era of AI and innovation,” he said when launching ACOH 2026 at his office in Wisma Bapa Malaysia yesterday (Apr 21).

Dr Sim said the congress would not only encourage knowledge sharing but also help lay the foundation for long-term development in occupational health.

“We want this conference to trigger further progress in other developments and ensure that the growth is sustainable. Medical advancement has always relied on sharing and collaboration,” he said.

He added that the congress’ theme – Navigating Global Cross-Cultural Perspective on Occupational Health: Shaping the Future for Sustainability – would bring diverse perspectives to the table, helping participants adapt best practices to their own local contexts.

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