Latest news with #MRCS
Borneo Post
01-08-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Public support vital for welfare efforts, says Deputy Premier
Dr Sim (third, left) donates to the MRCS Kuching Branch during the launch of the annual Flag Day 2025. – Photo by Kong Jun Liung KUCHING (Aug 1): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has urged the public to support community welfare efforts through donations. Speaking when launching the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Kuching Branch's annual Flag Day 2025 campaign at the Unifor Complex today, he emphasised that charitable giving plays a crucial role in sustaining essential humanitarian services and strengthening Sarawak's social fabric. 'I urge the public to support community welfare efforts through donations,' he said. MRCS Kuching Branch Deputy Chairman Dr Chou Chii Ming said the Flag Day campaign, held annually, not only raises funds but also reinforces the importance of community care and volunteerism. 'This project reminds the public of the importance of community welfare services and seeks their support for the work we do all year round,' he said. Running throughout August, this year's campaign will see donation drives held in over 100 schools across Kuching, with contributions collected from teachers, parents, and students. Donors will receive the iconic Red Crescent 'paper flag' sticker as a token of appreciation. The public may also donate via online banking to MRCS Kuching Branch's Public Bank account at 3112885809. Dr Sim Kui Hian MRCS support welfare
Borneo Post
01-08-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Deputy Premier: Wider AED access, greater CPR awareness key to building more inclusive, developed Sarawak
John (third right) and Dr Chou (sixth right) hold an AED unit as Dr Sim (fifth right) looks on during a group photo today. – Photo by Kong Jun Liung KUCHING (Aug 1): Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called for greater accessibility to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and increased public awareness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) as Sarawak moves toward becoming a more inclusive and developed society. He said while having AEDs in public spaces is vital, public understanding of CPR is equally critical in saving lives during emergencies. 'Someone can collapse, and within five minutes, if you don't help them, even if the heart rhythm returns later, the brain may be dead. 'More people must learn CPR and teaching secondary school students is a good start. 'At least they will know what to do at home if their grandparents collapse,' he told reporters after witnessing the handing-over ceremony of AEDs to the Malaysian Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Kuching branch and the Unifor Complex here today. The AEDs were donated by Mindray AED. Dr Sim, who is also State Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, said while AED units can range from RM6,000 to RM8,000 depending on features, basic models suitable for emergencies can cost under RM4,000. 'What we need is a basic AED that delivers a 300 to 360-joule shock. 'But that technology, some of it even can check your respiration and all those things, so it depends on what you need,' he said. On whether the government would provide AEDs in public spaces, Dr Sim said it should be a shared responsibility. 'It's no longer an excuse for public places like hotels or malls to say they can't afford one. It shouldn't be entirely the government's job. 'Everyone must play a part in nation-building. It shouldn't always be up to the government. Public facilities such as hotels and malls should take responsibility. 'There's no excuse anymore to say an AED is unaffordable,' he said. He added that Sarawak is currently reviewing its building ordinance to include requirements for AEDs, fire safety, and sustainability standards under the Green Building Index. 'The building ordinance is being reviewed to bring it up to date with current needs. If we talk about sustainability, our laws must reflect that,' he said. Meanwhile, MRCS Kuching Branch Deputy Chairman Dr Chou Chii Ming highlighted the organisation's ongoing campaign to promote CPR and AED awareness. 'This year, we launched a campaign focusing on CPR and AED education. 'We've partnered with DBKU (Kuching North City Commission) and the state Education Department to conduct training and demonstrations for their staff,' he said. He added that MRCS Kuching has also begun conducting CPR and AED training in secondary schools across the city to equip the younger generation with essential life-saving skills.
Borneo Post
22-06-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Dr Sim: Urgent need for CPR, AED awareness as heart attacks, sudden collapses on the rise
Ting (fourth right) in a group photo with participants. Also seen are Yap (second left) and Dr Chow (third right). KUCHING (June 22): Cases of heart attacks and sudden collapses are reported to be on the rise in Sarawak, which can be fatal if immediate assistance is not provided, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. He said as such, there is an urgent need for awareness and training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) among the community. 'Awareness and training in CPR and the use of AEDs are extremely important and must be disseminated across all levels of society to save lives in emergency situations,' he said at the Run to Save Lives 5.0 organised by the Malaysian Red Crescent Sarawak (MRCS) Kuching Chapter today. His text of speech was delivered by Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting. Dr Sim said the Sarawak government welcomed any initiatives by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as the MRCS and private sectors to work together in widely promoting this knowledge. He also commended the efforts of MRC Kuching for actively organising CPR and AED awareness training and for involving more schools and communities in their programmes. 'I was informed that 28 primary and secondary schools are participating in this year's Run to Save Lives event. 'This shows that Sarawak's younger generation is becoming increasingly engaged in community initiatives,' he said. He added that such efforts are crucial in shaping a generation that not only excels academically but is also sensitive to health and community safety issues. In the context of Sarawak's encouraging economic development, Dr Sim stressed that the health and well-being of the people must remain a top priority that should not be taken lightly. 'Events like this not only help raise funds but also spread important messages about healthy lifestyles and preparedness in emergency situations,' he said. He expressed hope that more Sarawakians, especially the younger generation, will step up to support and participate in community initiatives for the greater good. Also present were Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap and event organising chairman Dr Chow Chee Ming.
Hindustan Times
31-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Doctor shares why cranberry juice is the next big thing to improve your gut health
Good gut health depends on what's on your plate, and sometimes, what's in your glass. Superfoods that supercharge gut health have a new contender in the spotlight- and it's a tart, sweet drink, cranberry juice. UK-based Dr Karan Rajan, who regularly shares health and nutrition tips on Instagram, posted on May 30 his reaction to a video of a content creator, explaining how she's having cranberry juice for better gut health. He also broke down the surprising benefits of cranberry juice's pigment for the gut microbiome. A post shared by Dr Karan Rajan (MRCS MBBS BSc) (@drkaranrajan) Dr Karan Rajan breaks down the gut-boosting properties of a powerful compound found in cranberries, called polyphenols, in the clip. According to him, the gut microbiome benefits the most from cranberry juice, as it promotes the growth of beneficial bacterial strains. He explained, "When you drink cranberry juice, you get a dose of one of the most beneficial nutrients you can get from any diet, polyphenols. These are natural plant antioxidants which can help reduce inflammation and provide some more gut health benefits. The type of polyphenols found in cranberries, which also give it its vibrant colour, are called proanthocyanidins. These polyphenols help to reduce the growth of bad bacteria, leading to better gut health. In fact, there's growing evidence that cranberry polyphenols can act as prebiotics, basically food for the good bacteria. So they promote the growth of beneficial strains like Akkermansia, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus." The absorption of nutrients and overall efficiency also depend on how you consume the fruit. Additionally, gut health thrives with a diet that is diverse and contains a variety of polyphenols. Dr Ranjan added, "The benefits from eating cranberries or blending the fruit into a smoothie are far greater than just the juice because it lacks fibre. But occasionally, it's a convenient option for the boost of plant pigments. If you want to eat food with the highest concentrations of polyphenols, then just choose plants that are dark red, purple, or blue. If you eat a wide range of colourful plants, you maximise the chances of getting a variety of plant pigments and polyphenols. Different polyphenols each have a unique impact on the gut microbiome, meaning each one can help you support different microbes." ALSO READ: Gastroenterologist shares 5 juices he 'drinks as a doctor for gut and liver health': Pomegranate to cranberry juice Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The Star
27-05-2025
- General
- The Star
Humanitarian theme in MRCS parade
Ling (standing at podium) and Chua (right) watching the MRCS Sibu march-past in Tun Zaidi Stadium. THE Malaysia Red Crescent Society (MRCS) Sibu branch's Annual Inspection Parade 2025 held in Sibu town, Sarawak, carries on a proud community tradition. MRCS Sibu chairman Penghulu Chua Hiong Kee described the event as a celebration of the society members' discipline, unity and selflessness. 'The parade is a powerful symbol of our dedication to serving humanity. This lies at the very heart of MRCS Sibu,' he said. At the Tun Zaidi Stadium, members marched in precision and saluted beneath fluttering flags bearing the symbolic colours of the MRCS. Chua emphasised that these displays reflected a readiness to serve in hard times. 'These show our commitment to humanitarian services and our willingness to give selflessly in times of crises, without expecting anything in return. As long as there is a need, there will be someone wearing the Red Crescent emblem, and who is ready to serve, comfort and heal,' he added. Chua also explained MRCS Sibu's vision of nurturing young people through its ranks, with juniors becoming cadets and eventually graduating into the Voluntary Aid Detachment unit. This approach fosters lifelong contributors to the humanitarian sector, he noted. 'The impact of your good deeds is bigger than you will ever know. 'Let us move forward together with strength and purpose.' The parade highlighted this year's World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day theme 'On the Side of Humanity'. Chua said the theme symbolised the organisation's daily mission to put people first, act with compassion and serve all individuals regardless of background, status or belief. 'It is a call to stand firmly on the side of kindness and service,' he added. Sibu district education officer Ahli Chikba called on parents and community to continue to support the role of MRCS in schools. 'Encourage children to join uniformed bodies like MRCS, not just for Physical Activity, Sports and Co-Curriculum Assessment marks but to deepen the meaning of humanity and volunteerism,' he stated in his speech that was read out by his representative Jeremy Ling.
