KUCHING: Sarawak has set a new Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) after a mass circumcision programme involving about 1,800 participants surpassed the previous national record held by Pahang.
The Sarawak Annual Mass Circumcision 2025 targeted 2,050 participants statewide and was carried out simultaneously at government healthcare facilities across Sarawak.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the programme is a significant state initiative that reflects the government’s commitment to improving access to and the quality of healthcare services throughout the state.
“The programme is being conducted simultaneously, and coordinating it on such a scale requires meticulous planning, multidisciplinary expertise and close cooperation at all levels, reflecting the overall strength of the state’s healthcare system.
“This achievement is not merely a form of recognition, but a symbol of Sarawak’s capability to implement community health programmes in a systematic, high-quality and safe manner,” he said.
He said this in a text speech read out by the Deputy Minister of Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam during the programme at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) here today (Dec 20).
Meanwhile, Mohammad Razi said the programme had surpassed expectations, with about 1,800 participants recorded so far, exceeding Pahang’s previous record of 1,201 participants.
“Statewide, we set an initial target of 2,050 participants and reaching nearly 1,800 already places Sarawak ahead of the previous national benchmark of 1,201 set by Pahang.
“This means we have successfully broken Pahang’s record and set a new record in the Malaysia Book of Records,” he told reporters.
He also said the programme involved 22 facilities statewide, including hospitals and selected health clinics, with SGH alone recording 165 participants.
Commenting on the response from parents, he expressed gratitude for the strong cooperation and support shown, describing it as a positive sign of growing acceptance of circumcision as an important healthcare practice for children.
“Based on the participation, it shows that awareness among parents in Sarawak is increasing. Not only Muslims, but also non-Muslims are taking part in this programme,” he said.
He added that most participants were aged 10 years and above, which he said is an appropriate age for circumcision, although some children may not attend due to fear.
“My hope is that the Sarawak State Health Department, together with the Sarawak Health authorities, will continue this programme, while at the same time increasing public awareness about good healthcare practices for children, particularly regarding circumcision,” he added.
