Latest news with #SibuHospital
Borneo Post
07-07-2025
- General
- Borneo Post
Hundreds attend inauguration of new Sri Maha Mariamman Temple in Sibu (Video)
Manogaran (third left), Sangapoosan (fifth left), and others in a group photo. — Photo by Peter Boon SIBU (July 7): Hundreds of Hindu devotees converged on the new Sri Maha Mariamman Temple at Jalan Orchid here today for its inauguration. The drizzle did not dampen their spirits throughout the ceremony. Among those present were temple president Manogaran Krishnasamy, Sibu Hospital director Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu, and Malaysia Hindu Sangam president Sangapoosan T Ganesan. Photo shows the short procession. — Photo by Peter Boon Manogaran told The Borneo Post the initial plan was to hold the opening ceremony yesterday. 'However, that date wasn't quite 'ideal' for us. Therefore, we chose July 7 instead, as it's considered an auspicious day according to the Indian calendar,' he explained. There was a short procession on the temple's compound before the devotees proceeded into the house of worship itself and took part in prayers. The new temple was elaborately decorated by artisans from India. — Photo by Peter Boon Construction on the temple had been hit by a four-year delay due to the Covid-19 pandemic. During an interview with The Borneo Post last month, Manogaran said the original temple was built in 1920. 'It was just a small hut back then. This present building was established in 1971.' Prayers are held on top of the temple. — Photo by Peter Boon Manogaran also pointed out the construction cost nearly amounted to RM2 million, up from the initial RM1.1 million due to rising building material costs and also wages. 'The current double-storey building of the temple would be repurposed. 'We need to use the top floor as a hall, while the ground floor will be for the priest's accommodation and other related purposes,' he said, adding the building has significant historical and cultural value. Devotees join the prayer session inside the new temple building. — Photo by Borhaniza Ali Basah Jalan Orchid lead Manogaran Krishnasamy Sri Maha Mariamman Temple
Borneo Post
21-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
SWB: Sibu water woes traced to leaks at hospital, airport
Abdul Malik, flanked by Sia (left) and Loh, responds to a question posed during the press conference. SIBU (June 21): The ongoing water supply issues affecting Kemuyang, Sibu Jaya, Rascom Camp and the surrounding areas have been primarily attributed to leaks in the pipeline supplying water to the mentioned areas. Speaking at a press conference here today, Sibu Water Board (SWB) general manager Abdul Malik Abdullah revealed that investigations had pinpointed two key premises with suspected major internal pipeline leaks: Sibu Hospital, and Sibu Airport. 'In the case of Sibu Hospital, we have observed a noticeable increase in water consumption, from approximately 0.5 MLD (million litres per day) to 1MLD. 'Additionally, a review of the hospital's water bills also raised concerns. Typically, their monthly bill is around RM15,000. 'However, last month, it spiked to RM30,000. 'As for Sibu Airport, daily water consumption has doubled from 0.3MLD to 0.6MLD,' he said, adding that both locations had been notified of these matters. In view of this, he said the board had slightly reduced the sluice valve opening to regulate water flow to these two locations while awaiting repair works. According to Abdul Malik, many pipelines are ageing, with some already in service for about 30 years. He also highlighted that the water demand in Sibu had reached its peak at 195MLD, matching the combined production capacity of the existing plants: 150MLD from the Salim Water Treatment Plant, and 45MLD from the Bukit Lima treatment facility. 'This means the system is operating at full capacity. Even minor water disruptions or leaks can impact the overall supply,' he added. To address the issue, Abdul Malik said several main projects had been approved, with some currently being implemented. 'The Salim water treatment plant will increase its capacity from 150MLD to 300MLD, with RM300 million allocated by the Sarawak government,' he said, adding that the project commenced in May last year and should reach completion by mid-2027. 'Upon completion, Sibu's total water production capacity will increase to 345MLD, including output from the Bukit Lima water treatment plant, boosting the reserve margin in order to water usage, in which we anticipate until 2036.' Abdul Malik also said the Sarawak government had approved RM170 million for replacement of 360km stretch of ageing pipes in phases, from this year until 2028. 'This year, five packages worth RM51 million are being implemented as part of the overall project. The Sarawak government has allocated RM1.1 billion for the initiative, with RM170 million allocated to SWB,' he said. Furthermore, Abdul Malik pointed at the Sungai Sadit acute plant as among the mitigation measures, pending the completion of the upgrading works on the Salim water treatment plant. 'This acute system, with 4MLD production capacity, will increase our water reserves.' He also said the non-revenue water (NRW) reduction project, expected to be completed by April 2026, should lead to water savings of 15MLD. In addition, the Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB)'s project, an acute plant in Nibong Tada, once completed, would eliminate the need for SWB to supply 2MLD of water to JBALB. Among those present at the press conference were SWB senior manager (customer service and distribution) Loh Wei Lun and assistant executive (non-revenue water) Sia Yew Tatt. disruption pipeline leaks Sibu SWB water
Borneo Post
17-05-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
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
Borneo Post
16-05-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Nurses are architects of Malaysia's future healthcare, says Tiong
Tiong urges policymakers to recognise the vital role nurses play in shaping the country's healthcare system. – Bernama photo SIBU (May 16): Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called for stronger support and investment in Malaysia's nursing workforce, describing nurses as the 'architects of the future healthcare landscape'. Speaking at the Nurses Night event organised by the Sibu Hospital in conjunction with the Nurses' Day celebration today, he urged policymakers to recognise the vital role nurses play in shaping the country's healthcare system. 'They are the future of healthcare, and we must ensure their well-being and professional development are prioritised. We must create an environment where nurses feel valued, empowered and supported with adequate resources and training,' he said. The Dudong assemblyman also stressed the need to listen to nurses and involve them in healthcare policy-making, noting that their frontline experience gives them unique insights into patient care and systemic challenges. 'Their voices matter, and those in positions of power must hear them,' he said. He also acknowledged the immense pressure nurses faced due to staffing shortages, which have forced many to juggle multiple responsibilities under challenging conditions. 'Your ability to provide optimal patient care, even with limited resources, speaks volumes about your resilience, professionalism and selfless dedication,' he said. Tiong lauded nurses for their unwavering compassion and commitment, noting their impact extends beyond hospitals to the wider community. 'Your work not only affects the individuals you serve but also their families and society at large,' he added. He also emphasised the economic value of a robust healthcare system supported by healthy citizens. 'Healthy citizens contribute to increased productivity, reduced healthcare costs and a better quality of life for all,' he said. Tiong also encouraged nurses to continue advocating for their profession, stating that their expertise is indispensable in charting the course of Malaysia's healthcare future. – Bernama architect celebration future healthcare nurse Tiong King Sing
Borneo Post
15-05-2025
- Health
- Borneo Post
Hand hygiene is daily defence, not just campaign, says Sibu Hospital director
(From left) Molly, Dr Vivek, Dr Nanthakumar, Lau, and Dr Nizam pose for a photo-call, while showing their palms in a symbolic gesture to mark World Hand Hygiene Day. SIBU (May 15): In conjunction with World Hand Hygiene Day, Sibu Hospital launched a comprehensive campaign to emphasise the importance of hand hygiene, not just as an annual initiative but as a daily practice to prevent infectious diseases. Sibu Hospital director Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu stressed that proper hand hygiene should become a regular habit, particularly at home, alongside healthcare settings. 'True hand hygiene goes beyond campaigns. Making it a daily routine can significantly reduce illnesses, especially among children and parents,' he said. During the launching of the event yesterday, various awareness activities were held, including a hand hygiene video competition involving over 900 hospital staff, from doctors and nurses to support personnel. These efforts, according to Dr Nanthakumar, are crucial in improving compliance scores, which he noted could rise from 80 per cent to 90 per cent through sustained education and engagement. He also highlighted how the Covid-19 pandemic demonstrated the effectiveness of hand-washing and mask-wearing in reducing the spread of diseases such as influenza and Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD). 'Simple actions like washing hands and wearing masks can curb the spread of infections,' he said. Dr Nanthakumar further warned of growing risks within hospitals due to the presence of drug-resistant organisms Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) and Multidrug-Resistant Organisms (MDRO). 'In such times, surveillance and response must be heightened. Hand hygiene is a basic, yet powerful defence,' he added. He also advocated for a holistic approach to health, encouraging good hygiene, healthy eating, and lifestyle habits to prevent disease and reduce reliance on strong antibiotics, which are becoming less effective due to rising resistance. Present at the event were Dewan Rakyat deputy speaker and Lanang MP Alice Lau, alongside key officials from the State Health Department (JKNS), including senior principal assistant director Dr Vivek Vijayan, Sibu Hospital deputy director Dr Nizam Ishak, and JKNS infection control coordinator Matron Molly Hafsah Jemat. The World Hand Hygiene Day, spearheaded by the World Health Organisation, promotes the importance of hand hygiene in healthcare and everyday life under this year's campaign themed 'It Might Be Gloves, But It's Always Hand Hygiene'. Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu lead Sibu Hospital World Hand Hygiene Day
