By Dayak Daily Team,Editor KB

Copyright dayakdaily

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Sept 17: About 16 to 18 per cent of Sarawak’s population is living with diabetes, a health crisis that Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian says can no longer be ignored.

Dr Sim, who is also Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, stressed that diabetes is not just a distant problem but one that is already taking a heavy toll on families across the State.

“In Malaysia, one in five people or 21 per cent of the population lives with diabetes. Here in Sarawak, about 16 to 18 per cent of our people are affected.

“This is a worrying trend because if uncontrolled, diabetes leads to serious complications such as blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and even amputations. The suffering, the loss of income, and the emotional toll on families are immense,” he said in his speech delivered by Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng at the Adopt-A-Child Programme organised by Diabetes Malaysia, Sarawak Branch today.

He praised the Adopt-A-Child initiative, which provides glucose test strips to children with diabetes, describing it as a “noble effort that deserves the highest commendation”.

While Type 1 diabetes accounts for fewer than five per cent of all cases, Dr Sim noted that affected children rely on daily insulin injections and continuous monitoring to survive, making test strips vital yet unaffordable for many families.

“Today’s contribution brings real help to those who need it most,” he said.

Dr Sim further urged parents and the community to take proactive steps in prevention, starting with awareness of early symptoms and cultivating healthier eating habits among children.

“We must teach our young people to make better choices to reduce sugar intake, to be physically active, and to understand that prevention is always better than cure,” he said.

Through education, awareness, and collective action, he added, Sarawak can reduce not only diabetes cases but also related conditions such as high cholesterol and heart disease.

In closing, Dr Sim expressed gratitude to Diabetes Malaysia, Sarawak Branch, for its continuous efforts in raising awareness and supporting families.

“Your dedication gives hope to many families and helps build a healthier Sarawak for the future. Together, let us work towards a community where no child is left behind, where every parent has the knowledge to protect their children, and where diabetes no longer claims so many lives,” he said. — DayakDaily