Tiong: Empower nurses to build stronger healthcare system
(From second left) Teh, Tiong, Ho, Nita and Natha in a group photo as they cut the cake on stage during the event.
SIBU (May 17): Stakeholders and leaders must prioritise investment in nurses to create a healthcare environment where they feel valued, empowered, and supported, said Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.
Speaking at the Nurses Day celebration here last night, Tiong emphasised that nurses are not only caregivers but also educators, advocates, and essential pillars of the healthcare system.
'Nurses are the future of healthcare. We must provide them with the resources, support, and training they need for professional growth and well-being,' said the Bintulu MP and Dudong assemblyman.
He said the compassion and commitment shown by nurses not only impact their patients but also families and the broader community.
'It is their unwavering spirit that strengthens the very fabric of our economy. Healthy citizens lead to higher productivity, reduced healthcare costs, and an improved quality of life for all,' he said.
Tiong urged nurses to continue advocating for themselves and their profession, noting that their insights are vital in shaping healthcare policy.
'Your voices matter. Those in power must listen to you because you understand your patients' needs best,' he said.
Touching on the 2025 Nurses Day theme, 'Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies', Tiong said it was especially relevant as the country faces increasing pressure on its healthcare system.
'The shortage of nurses means many of you are forced to multitask under tremendous pressure. Yet, your ability to provide optimal patient care despite these challenges speaks volumes about your resilience and dedication,' he said.
He described the event as the largest Nurses Night Dinner in history, uniting staff from Sibu Hospital, cluster hospitals, Rejang Medical Centre, and the Nursing Training Institute—a reflection of the strong camaraderie within the nursing community.
Tiong announced a contribution of RM10,000 to support annual activities for Sibu nurses, and pledged to sponsor 200 tables for next year's Appreciation Dinner for nurses and doctors at Sibu Hospital.
Also present at the event were Sibu Hospital director Dr Nathakumar Thirunavukkarasu, Sibu Divisional Medical Officer Dr The Jo Hun, Head of Nurses Nita Bakar, and event organiser Florence Ho.
In his remarks, Dr Nathakumar praised nurses as the backbone of healthcare, recalling the legacy of Florence Nightingale.
'When I see the lamp, I remember the Lady with the Lamp. Her observations and dedication during wartime changed hygiene practices and dramatically reduced soldier mortality,' he said.
He reminded nurses that they are not alone, adding: 'Today's times are challenging, and expectations are high, but nurses have proven time and again their strength and resilience.' healthcare nurses Tiong King Sing
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