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Metro
4 days ago
- Health
- Metro
Teacher fixated on baldness killed himself after using unlicensed hair loss drug
A teacher obsessed with not going bald killed himself after switching to an unlicensed drug to treat his hair loss, an inquest heard. Sam Applegarth, 31, who had no history of mental health problems, ended his life in Dubai after starting an online prescription course of dutasteride, which is not licensed for hair loss in the UK. The PE teacher, who had first sought help for his hair loss aged 22, had used British National Formulary (BNF) drugs minoxidil and finasteride for years without any side effects. The inquest heard that there are no known 'suicidal ideation' side effects from taking dutasteride – a drug primarily used to treat an enlarged prostate – because there has been a failure to report such feelings in men taking the drug. Today, Sam's heartbroken girlfriend Anya Guy, 30, urged anybody having suicidal thoughts due to taking dutasteride to inform medical experts and hopefully prevent any further deaths. Sam was brought up in Outwood, near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, and after working for the Rugby Football League took up teaching science and PE at Minsthorpe High School. Wakefield Coroner's Court heard that he had been concerned about losing his hair since 2015, and visited Dr Bessam Farjo at his trichology clinic in Manchester. Dr Farjo told the hearing that Sam visited for consultations and advice but was never prescribed any drugs. He said he was aware that Sam had started taking minoxidil, which is easily available over the counter at Boots, and later complemented with doses of finasteride. Dr Farjo told coroner Oliver Longstaff that Sam had 'self-sourced' those drugs and both he and Sam had been happy with their effects. In 2017, Sam underwent a successful hair transplant at the Farjo Hair Institute, in Manchester. In regular follow-up consultations Sam informed the doctor that, elsewhere, he had undergone platelet-rich plasma treatment, where a concentrated portion of his own blood was injected in a bid to rejuvenate his hair. He had also had his head tattooed to give the appearance of hair, in a process called scalp micro pigmentation. 'He was happy with the overall appearance after the tattoo,' Dr Farjo told the inquest. Sam last saw Dr Farjo in July 2024, two months before he flew to Dubai. He reported still taking minoxidil and finasteride tablets, which he had sourced himself. He was also using camouflage products to conceal his hair loss and the doctor suggested cognitive therapy to alleviate Sam's anxiety about going bald. 'He was a young man with an exaggerated view about how big an issue his hair loss was,' said the doctor. 'I had no concerns he was having any side effects from the drugs.' He stated that 'suicidal ideation' is one recognised side effect of taking finasteride, but if a patient had not experienced those thoughts whilst on the drug they would not suffer those after the drug is out of their system. Dr Farjo said he was unaware Sam had begun taking dutasteride, which he described as 'more powerful' than finasteride. He said the known side effects of both drugs are the same, apart from finasteride has been reported by the BNF to cause suicidal ideation. Dr Farjo acknowledged, under questioning from Ms Guy, there may be an underreporting of suicidal ideation by patients following a course of dutasteride. 'Dutasteride is not licensed for hair loss in this country, and it is not commonly prescribed,' he said. 'The reason the BNF suicide ideation is not mentioned for dutasteride is because it has not been reported, whereas it has been reported for finasteride.' Dr Farjo said that it would have been easy to access a course of dutasteride himself. He said numerous private medical supply companies are 'sprouting up' to prescribe drugs to patients, without seeing them in person. Ms Guy told the inquest that Sam had moved to Dubai to teach in August, last year, with a view to her joining him at a later date. She said he had 'struggled at times with his self-esteem' due to his perceived hair loss, but she felt his condition was not a bad as he believed. His GP and family told the inquest Sam had no history of mental illness or self-harm he was a 'bright and happy individual'. He appeared to be thriving in Dubai, enjoying swims, the gym and getting in more than 20,000 steps a day. However, he was found dead in his apartment by a work colleague on 19 September – just five weeks after arriving in Dubai. More Trending He left no suicide note and a post-mortem found no alcohol or drugs in his system. Following Coroner Longstaff's finding of 'suicide', Ms Guy said outside court that she hoped people who may be suffering suicidal thoughts whilst taking dutasteride to come forward. She said: 'People feeling by side effects with dutasteride should report them, especially if they are feeling suicidal. 'People need to be aware that they may be having suicidal ideation because of the drug.' Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@ For more stories like this, check our news page. MORE: Our daughter was crushed to death by a hotel wardrobe – we still haven't got answers MORE: Soldier was 'degraded' by superior officers before being found dead in barracks MORE: Police officer died 'after being struck by train while helping man on railway'
Borneo Post
01-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Modern elements eroding identity of traditional dressing of Sabah, Sarawak
Sarah Sanapan said that the Dusun Tindal shirt is among the best-selling, especially among Sabahans in the Peninsula, foreign tourists and cultural dancers. – Bernama photo KUALA LUMPUR (June 1): The combination of black fabric with touches of golden lace and sparkling beads continues to make traditional Sabah and Sarawak attire an admiration among many during the Kaamatan and Gawai Festival. Now, traditional clothing that was once popular only in two states in Borneo is increasingly gaining ground among young people, especially those working in the federal capital. The evidence was clearly visible at the Borneo Native Festival (BNF) at Pasar Seni here last week when many visitors appeared in traditional Sabah and Sarawak clothing, matched with modern styles. However, the increasing variety of modern styles is a little worrying for Sarah Sanapan, 59, a traditional Sabah tailor who strives to maintain the authenticity of each of her designs, especially the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, and Rungus (KDMR) clothing, so that it does not become lost over time. 'I am afraid that amidst the increasingly rapid stream of modernisation, traditional clothing is starting to lose its touch of authenticity with attempts to modernise it,' she told Bernama when met during the BNF recently. With over 20 years of experience sewing traditional KDMR clothes, the Bisaya woman said that traditional clothing tailors like her should play the role of cultural ambassadors to advise customers to maintain authentic traditional clothing. Sharing the process of sewing traditional clothing, Sarah noted that Sabah's traditional clothing varies according to tribes and regions, but the Sinipak Dusun Tindal shirt from Kota Belud is among the most complicated and time-consuming to complete. 'To complete a set of Dusun Tindal shirts takes five days because it requires precision when sewing the para-para (sleeves), siling (golden lace) and beads and the easiest is the Kadazan Penampang shirt with five suits completed in a day,' she said. However, Sarah said that the Dusun Tindal shirt is among the best-selling, especially among Sabahans in the Peninsula, foreign tourists and cultural dancers. Regarding the price of traditional clothing, she said it is sold between RM300 and RM2,000, depending on the jewellery and needs to be matched with accessories such as necklaces, bracelets and belts called himpogot or tangkong. Also sharing the importance of maintaining the authenticity of traditional clothing is Catherine Eric, a 57-year-old tailor from Sarawak, who first brought a collection from her state to Peninsular Malaysia through BNF. The Iban woman is concerned that incorporating too many modern elements or applications into traditional clothing will dilute the traditional art and meaning inherent in each garment. Catherine also shared that she receives many orders for traditional Bidayuh clothing, however, the sewing process takes time because the lis (golden lace) part needs to be sewn carefully. 'Usually it takes me two to three days to complete a set of Bidayuh clothes, but if there is an urgent request, I will try to at least complete the clothes in a day,' she said. A pair of Bidayuh women's clothes without any ornaments cost between RM250 to RM450 and it could reach RM1,500 if worn complete with ornaments such as a scarf, belt, bracelets and anklets, she said. Regarding BNF, Sarah and Catherine agreed that it is like a cultural bridge that introduces the rich arts and traditions of Sabah and Sarawak to the various ethnic communities in Peninsular Malaysia as well as foreign tourists. The annual festival, the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day, are always eagerly awaited by the Borneo community in Peninsular Malaysia.-Bernama
Daily Express
31-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Sabah's linopot a hit at Kuala Lumpur Borneo Fest
Published on: Friday, May 30, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 30, 2025 By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: Anna Stanislaus (left) and public enjoying linopot. Kota Kinabalu: Sabah's native cuisine is gaining widespread recognition with increasing demand for traditional dishes at cultural events such as the Borneo Native Festival (BNF), recently held in Kuala Lumpur. Among the most sought-after dishes was Linopot, a traditional dish where rice is wrapped in banana or Tarap leaves, an appreciation for Sabah's native food culture. According to Raffy Swazwan, President of the Sukaseni Association in Kuala Lumpur, Linopot had consistently been a festival favourite, attracting both local and international visitors eager to experience the authentic flavours of Sabah. He had encouraged passionate Sabahans to expand their culinary expertise beyond their home state, saying that traditional cuisine holds significant commercial potential in the food scene. One entrepreneur working to preserve and promote local cuisine is Anna Stanislaus, a Kadazan who owned Inai Kitchen, a small eatery in Penampang to keep Kadazandusun flavours alive. Inspired by her mother, Mathilda Sipili, Anna had long been passionate about preserving and innovating native dishes, ensuring they remain relevant especially for younger generations. Advertisement Her journey began in Kg. Kobusak, where she opened a small eatery catering to locals. Despite her commitment and passion, she admitted that she never received financial assistance from the government. Determined to pursue her dream, she worked to fund her own venture. Inai Kitchen first opened in 2022, next to her home. However, frequent flooding forced her to shut down repeatedly, making it difficult to sustain her little business. In seeking stability, she relocated her shop to Country Heights Plaza, choosing a flood-free location where she could continue with her little business. She continued reviving traditional dishes with a modern twist, hoping to bridge heritage and contemporary tastes. She believes that it can help younger generations connect with their roots, preventing traditional dishes from being overshadowed by fast-food trends. As Kaamatan continues to be celebrated throughout May, traditional food remains central to the festivities. With entrepreneurs like Anna pushing Sabah's cuisine onto a bigger stage, and with dishes like Linopot gaining recognition, the appreciation for indigenous flavours became stronger. She also shared her skills in preparing traditional dishes such as Bambangan, Tuhau, and Hinava, which she learned from her family and remained grateful for. Growing up, she embraced the knowledge passed down to her, turning her passion for native cuisine into an income-generating hobby. By refining the recipes and incorporating them into her menu, she continues to honour her heritage while making a living through her love of food. As rice is the staple food of communities, the legendary story of its origins continues to be honoured. The journey from paddy to rice is a symbol of gratitude to farmers who sustain the tradition. 'In this context, Linopot holds deep significance, not only as a traditional dish but as a way to preserve and promote our legacy, particularly among younger generations,' she said.
Borneo Post
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Foundation features ‘Sape Ambassadors' at Borneo Native Fest in KL
Volunteers gather for a group photo at the YPS booth, open throughout the Borneo Native Festival at the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur. KUCHING (May 23): Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak (YPS) is now at the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur for the three-day Borneo Native Festival (BNF), running until May 25. The foundation's participation at this cultural and heritage gathering marks its first appearance outside Sarawak, bringing together its 'Sape Ambassadors'. 'Our participation at this festival is very much awaited and the stage performance is our first away from home,' said a YPS spokesman in a statement today. 'The Sape Ambassadors have their followers in Sarawak and they have been well received for their unique stage presentation.' The 'Sape Ambassadors' have gained prominence in Sarawak after numerous public performances, including at the Borneo Cultural Festival, an international tourism event held in Sibu last year, and also their last concert at the closing of the annual Kaul Mukah Festival earlier this month. The 'Sape Ambassadors' are a group of talented musical youths, trained in sape, the traditional boat lute of the Orang Ulu. 'These 'Ambassadors' comprise youths representing all races in Sarawak, Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia, including representation from the Orang Asli community. 'They adorn their colourful traditional costumes playing the sape to the beat to local favourite songs in all languages in Malaysia including Mandarin, Kadazan-Dusun, Orang Asli and Tamil, besides the various Sarawak's indigenous languages. 'Their songs are local favourites, including oldies and other community hits like the Iban's 'Berkikis Bulu Betis', Kadazan-Dusun's 'Anak Kampung' and the Mandarin version of 'Mei Lan Wo Ai Ni'. 'This makes for a unique musical presentation; hence, the adoption of the stage theme 'Rhythm of Unity',' the spokesman added. Backed-up by Amir Hamzah from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), the 'Sape Ambassadors' stand as one of YPS signature projects in its nationwide 'Unity in Diversity' promotion. These Ambassadors are performing at the BNF in KL's Central Market today, from 4pm to 5pm. The spokesman added: 'YPS will have a booth located at the festival site where a mini exhibition featuring YPS's vision and mission and its activity promotions. 'We also invite everyone to a special 'Jum Kelaka Sarawak' (Let's Speak Sarawak) session, taking place at the booth throughout the festival where you can polish up your colloquial Sarawak dialects.' Entry to the festival is free. Borneo Native Festival Sape Ambassadors Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak YPS
The Star
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Celebrate Kaamatan and Gawai in the Klang Valley
Going home to celebrate the harvest festival may not be feasible for most Sabahans and Sarawakians residing in Peninsular Malaysia. If this applies to you, fret not, you can still celebrate by partaking in these events that are happening in the Klang Valley throughout May and June. Taking place this weekend in Kuala Lumpur is the Borneo Native Festival (BNF). Both Sabah's Kaamatan festival and Sarawak's Gawai Dayak, the Bornean states' respective harvest festivals, are the focus of the event. Now in its fourth year, the 2025 edition of BNF will run from May 23 to May 25. It will be held at Central Market from 10am to 10pm throughout the three days. Different activities are scheduled for each day, including Borneo craft workshops, music performances and traditional food demo. The Borneo Beatz Concert will bring the festivities to a close on the final day, with performances by the likes of Alena Murang, At Adau, Belle Sisoski and Tompuvan. If you are not from either state, your visit to the festival will give you the chance to experience the diverse cultures and traditions of Sabah and Sarawak. More merriment If you're a Sabahan craving for homecooked meals, or you just want a taste of the state's traditional cuisines, satiate your hunger at the Sabah Kaamatan Buffet by Ibis Kuala Lumpur City Centre. Currently taking place at the hotel's Kampung Kitchen Buffet Restaurant until May 31, the buffet features a spread consisting of Sabah's traditional dishes such as hinava (raw fish salad), ambuyat (sticky sago) and linopot (leaf-wrapped rice). Savour Sabahan traditional food at the Sabah Kaamatan Buffet at Ibis KLCC. — Photos: FLOREY D. MIKIL/The Star Sabah Kaamatan Buffet offers authentic Sabahan dishes. Ensuring authenticity, all ingredients are sourced from Sabah itself by chef Sandra Paut. This marks the third year in a row that the Kadazandusun chef, from My Native Sabah Restaurant in Kota Kinabalu, is flown in to curate the menu. Sarawakians will also get a chance to savour their traditional dishes in June, as the hotel will be introducing its inaugural Sarawak-focused buffet early next month. Speaking of Sarawak, since the state known for its traditional drink tuak, several joints in KL will be holding special events featuring the drink. Among these is Nest13 Bar & Lounge in Petaling Jaya. You can grab some tuak cocktails at the rooftop bar during its Gawai Kaamatan Party Night on May 24. The event will feature traditional games and performances, as well as a live band, a best dressed contest and lucky draw sessions. If you missed the party this weekend, you can head instead to Pisco Bar in KL on May 29. The bar's Gawai Kaamatan Festival will kick off at 8pm, featuring traditional dancing, games and, of course, plenty of tuak. Havana Bar & Grill in KL will also hold its own Gawai Kaamatan Festival, happening on June 8. Partying isn't your scene? Perhaps you'll be more interested in the Kuala Lumpur Borneo Half Marathon 2025. Entering its second year, the marathon runs on June 1 at Dataran Merdeka. Registration closes on May 28, check here for details.
