Malay Mail: The Government is said to be concerned with certain aspects of Fomema's operations it deemed ‘sensitive’, from a national security standpoint, now that its parent, Pantai Holdings Bhd, is run by foreign concerns.
Sources said Fomema, as a concessionaire responsible for medical examinations of all foreign workers in Malaysia, is considered a high-security operation.
The company deals with sensitive information related to the legal foreign workforce and has on-line links with several government agencies, especially the Immigration Department.
This concern was heightened last week after the new owners instructed its auditor from Singapore to go through the books and the entire operations of Fomema, and another subsidiary, Pantai Medivest Sdn Bhd.
Fomema was expected to give the auditor “complete access to sensitive and critical information of the Malaysian healthcare policies and strategies”.
Among others, Fomema has been asked to furnish details on the number of workers tested and the tests carried out on them since 2004, and for it to furnish a listing of all sub-contracting agreements.
It was also asked if the Government had made any queries in changes of shareholding, and for Fomema to furnish the relevant correspondence on this.
Singapore’s Parkway Holdings Ltd in September bought 31 per cent in Pantai, which gives it effective control of Malaysia’s largest private healthcare provider, including Fomema and Medivest.
Fomema was set up in 1997 upon being awarded concession by the Government of Malaysia to carry out the monitoring and supervision of the medical examinations of foreign workers under the annual mandatory health-screening programme in Malaysia. Chief among its contributions is the creation of a centralised database on the foreign workforce for the Government to access.
This includes vital information and vital statistics relating to communicable diseases to facilitate immediate counter-action and prevention plans.
While the latest figures could not be immediately ascertained, Fomema screened 700,000 foreign foreign workers throughout the country in 2003.
Its operations involve 3,300 panel doctors nationwide.
Medivest, meanwhile, is the concessionaire responsible for strategic medical services and policies for the southern region.
It handles 22 government hospitals, most of which are in Johor, and linked to a centralised database that amalgamates information on all government hospitals.
Malaysian Medical News: keeping you up to date with news sourced from various online sites, put in one place for your convenience, with a searchable archive
Monday, December 19, 2005
Non-Muslims urged to test, pre-nuptial HIV screening good
NST: Non-Muslims in Johor are encouraged to go for a pre-nuptial HIV screening following the success of a similar programme for Muslims.
The screening for non-Muslims, however, is voluntary. For Muslims, it is mandatory.
Johor enforced the ruling after a high percentage of Muslim men were found to be HIV-positive, and it raised the spectre of HIV-infected children.
State executive councillor Dr Robiah Kosai said the State Government was keen to extend the scheme to non-Muslims, for the welfare of their families.
"We cannot stop non-Muslim couples from marrying if they choose not to go for the screening. There will be no compulsion. It will be entirely voluntary," she said.
Dr Robiah, who heads the Women, Family and Social Development State Committee, said the Johor Welfare Department, in association with selected non-governmental organisations, would conduct special courses and counsel couples who did not object to the programme.
"The module used will be similar to the one we have for Muslims," she told reporters after a dialogue with fishermen at Parit Jawa fishing village, 12km from here.
HIV tests have been mandatory for Muslim couples planning marriage in the State since Nov 13, 2001.
The move initially drew considerable flak from the public, medical associations and religious bodies who claimed that such testing without an individual’s consent was not in the interest of public health.
They had also argued that compulsory HIV testing risked social stigmatisation and discrimination.
But the programme has since been adopted by several States after it was found to be effective in curbing the spread of HIV.
Under the programme, Muslim couples wanting to marry must undergo an HIV test at a government hospital or clinic, and deliver their doctor-certified test results to the religious authority conducting their wedding.
Couples certified fit and healthy will be issued a certificate and their marriage can be solemnised.
If either the man or woman tests positive, he or she has to undergo three months of counselling and medical treatment.
The intended partner of the infected spouse-to-be will be informed about the latter’s HIV-positive status, and it will be up to them if they wish to proceed with the marriage.
The screening for non-Muslims, however, is voluntary. For Muslims, it is mandatory.
Johor enforced the ruling after a high percentage of Muslim men were found to be HIV-positive, and it raised the spectre of HIV-infected children.
State executive councillor Dr Robiah Kosai said the State Government was keen to extend the scheme to non-Muslims, for the welfare of their families.
"We cannot stop non-Muslim couples from marrying if they choose not to go for the screening. There will be no compulsion. It will be entirely voluntary," she said.
Dr Robiah, who heads the Women, Family and Social Development State Committee, said the Johor Welfare Department, in association with selected non-governmental organisations, would conduct special courses and counsel couples who did not object to the programme.
"The module used will be similar to the one we have for Muslims," she told reporters after a dialogue with fishermen at Parit Jawa fishing village, 12km from here.
HIV tests have been mandatory for Muslim couples planning marriage in the State since Nov 13, 2001.
The move initially drew considerable flak from the public, medical associations and religious bodies who claimed that such testing without an individual’s consent was not in the interest of public health.
They had also argued that compulsory HIV testing risked social stigmatisation and discrimination.
But the programme has since been adopted by several States after it was found to be effective in curbing the spread of HIV.
Under the programme, Muslim couples wanting to marry must undergo an HIV test at a government hospital or clinic, and deliver their doctor-certified test results to the religious authority conducting their wedding.
Couples certified fit and healthy will be issued a certificate and their marriage can be solemnised.
If either the man or woman tests positive, he or she has to undergo three months of counselling and medical treatment.
The intended partner of the infected spouse-to-be will be informed about the latter’s HIV-positive status, and it will be up to them if they wish to proceed with the marriage.
Marina slams ministry’s move
Star: The Health Ministry’s decision to implement a harm reduction programme to fight the spread of HIV/AIDS should have been made public only after it was proven to be successful, said outgoing Malaysian AIDS Council president Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir.
In a frank interview with Mingguan Malaysia, she said there was actually no need to announce the programme – which will see the free distribution of needles and condoms to addicts.
“I was told that the minister wanted to 'test the market’. But we cannot test a market which doesn’t really understand the situation.
“We should have carried out the programme quietly while educating society on the matter at the same time,” she said.
Marina said the harm reduction programme should begin at once and on a larger scale, noting that it would not reach those most at risk on time if it were first introduced as a pilot project.
In announcing the programme in September, Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek had said the pilot project would start next month. Some religious leaders have since claimed that the move would condone free sex and encourage drug abuse.
In a frank interview with Mingguan Malaysia, she said there was actually no need to announce the programme – which will see the free distribution of needles and condoms to addicts.
“I was told that the minister wanted to 'test the market’. But we cannot test a market which doesn’t really understand the situation.
“We should have carried out the programme quietly while educating society on the matter at the same time,” she said.
Marina said the harm reduction programme should begin at once and on a larger scale, noting that it would not reach those most at risk on time if it were first introduced as a pilot project.
In announcing the programme in September, Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek had said the pilot project would start next month. Some religious leaders have since claimed that the move would condone free sex and encourage drug abuse.
When care is as vital as cure
Star: PENANG: Datuk Dr T.P. Devaraj, the first Malaysian to be listed in the World Medical Association’s 100 Caring Physicians, has always believed that compassion combined with modern medicine would open the door for a patient’s recovery.
“Sometimes all you have to do as a doctor or a nurse is just to sit and listen to your patients and see how best you could help them cope with their illness’,’ he said in an interview at his Jesselton Avenue house yesterday.
Describing the recognition as “part and parcel of good medical practice”, Dr Devaraj, 81, said cure should not be the primary objective as care shown to a patient was equally important.
In all humility, he said that he had only done what he had to do but it would be a meaningful journey if his work inspired others to embark on a good cause.
Dr Devaraj was instrumental in the establishment of the Penang Family Planning Association, the Hospice at Home Programme and the Penang Hospice Home.
He has been involved in community work since he graduated from the University of Singapore in 1952.
After completing his housemanship in Singapore, he returned to Malaya in 1954 and served at the Penang Hospital until his retirement in 1979.
He was among the founder members of the Malaysian Medical Association (MAA), was its president in 1983 and had served many years in MAA’s ethical committee.
Dr Devaraj is passionate about the Hospice programme, which he considers a new development in the country.
“At the time when we wanted to introduce the Hospice programme in 1992, there was a serious gap in our health system where there was a lack of patient support in terms of providing care for a patient after diagnosis”.
The programme has since been extended to 18 other towns such as Seremban, Tawau, Kuching and Sandakan, among others.
Another project close at heart for Dr Devaraj is the Penang Hospice Home in Air Itam, which began operations in February 2001 as an eight-bed hospital.
“We have never turned away anyone who has come to the hospice for help,” Dr Devaraj said.
He expressed hope that there would be more community involvement in providing care for patients.
“Sometimes all you have to do as a doctor or a nurse is just to sit and listen to your patients and see how best you could help them cope with their illness’,’ he said in an interview at his Jesselton Avenue house yesterday.
Describing the recognition as “part and parcel of good medical practice”, Dr Devaraj, 81, said cure should not be the primary objective as care shown to a patient was equally important.
In all humility, he said that he had only done what he had to do but it would be a meaningful journey if his work inspired others to embark on a good cause.
Dr Devaraj was instrumental in the establishment of the Penang Family Planning Association, the Hospice at Home Programme and the Penang Hospice Home.
He has been involved in community work since he graduated from the University of Singapore in 1952.
After completing his housemanship in Singapore, he returned to Malaya in 1954 and served at the Penang Hospital until his retirement in 1979.
He was among the founder members of the Malaysian Medical Association (MAA), was its president in 1983 and had served many years in MAA’s ethical committee.
Dr Devaraj is passionate about the Hospice programme, which he considers a new development in the country.
“At the time when we wanted to introduce the Hospice programme in 1992, there was a serious gap in our health system where there was a lack of patient support in terms of providing care for a patient after diagnosis”.
The programme has since been extended to 18 other towns such as Seremban, Tawau, Kuching and Sandakan, among others.
Another project close at heart for Dr Devaraj is the Penang Hospice Home in Air Itam, which began operations in February 2001 as an eight-bed hospital.
“We have never turned away anyone who has come to the hospice for help,” Dr Devaraj said.
He expressed hope that there would be more community involvement in providing care for patients.
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Fikri finds his heart
NST: A young Malaysian has given two people a new lease of life. The man suffered head injuries after an incident on Thursday and was declared brain dead. His organs, save his cornea, were harvested for transplant.
Malaysia’s mechanical heart boy has got a new heart and a chance at a longer life.
Muhammad Fikri Nor Azmi underwent a 10-hour heart transplant surgery at the National Heart Institute yesterday.
The institute declined to comment on the transplant but the New Sunday Times understands that he is in a stable condition.
It is learnt that a team of 30 medical personnel was involved in the operation. It is also understood that the donor was a young boy who was declared brain-dead.
Fikri was diagnosed with dilated cardio-myopathy, a heart disease which can lead to heart failure, when he was an infant and his heart started showing signs of deterioration only early this year.
He was put on the organ donor waiting list in March but doctors at the institute found that a delay would severely strain his heart, leading to the failure of other organs.
In July, he became the first person in Asia to be fitted with a mechanical heart. But doctors made it clear that the Implantable Ventricular Assist Device (IVAD), or mechanical heart, was only a temporary measure.
In recent months, he has encountered several complications. The latest required surgery to replace a faulty air-compressor line of the mechanical heart.
The IVAD helps the heart by taking over most of its functions.
Connected to the heart, it reduces the strain on the organ.
Patients in the United States and Europe have been known to survive for a little more than a year after being implanted with the IVAD, which costs RM100,000.
Malaysia’s mechanical heart boy has got a new heart and a chance at a longer life.
Muhammad Fikri Nor Azmi underwent a 10-hour heart transplant surgery at the National Heart Institute yesterday.
The institute declined to comment on the transplant but the New Sunday Times understands that he is in a stable condition.
It is learnt that a team of 30 medical personnel was involved in the operation. It is also understood that the donor was a young boy who was declared brain-dead.
Fikri was diagnosed with dilated cardio-myopathy, a heart disease which can lead to heart failure, when he was an infant and his heart started showing signs of deterioration only early this year.
He was put on the organ donor waiting list in March but doctors at the institute found that a delay would severely strain his heart, leading to the failure of other organs.
In July, he became the first person in Asia to be fitted with a mechanical heart. But doctors made it clear that the Implantable Ventricular Assist Device (IVAD), or mechanical heart, was only a temporary measure.
In recent months, he has encountered several complications. The latest required surgery to replace a faulty air-compressor line of the mechanical heart.
The IVAD helps the heart by taking over most of its functions.
Connected to the heart, it reduces the strain on the organ.
Patients in the United States and Europe have been known to survive for a little more than a year after being implanted with the IVAD, which costs RM100,000.
Design blind-friendly facilities, planners urged
Star: PENANG: Town planners are told to design facilities that are friendly to the blind and visually impaired group.
State Health, Welfare and Caring Society Committee chairman P.K. Subbaiyah said although awareness on the needs of blind persons was higher, blind-friendly facilities were still lacking.
“We need to make the surroundings friendly to the blind, so that they can enjoy a better quality of life,’’ he said at the White Cane Day celebration at St Nicholas Home for the Blind in Bagan Jermal here.
He represented Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Abdul Rashid Abdullah. The White Cane Day was on Oct 15 but the celebration was postponed due to the fasting month.
Subbaiyah called on the public to show their caring attitude towards blind people.
“It is displeasing to note that some motorists refuse to stop their vehicles to give way for blind pedestrians to cross the road,” he said adding that some motorists parked their cars in the middle of walkways, posing obstacles to the blind.
“We must do everything we can to help the blind,’’ he said while lauding non-governmental organisations and corporate bodies, including Intel which were involved in helping the poor.
Some 100 staff from Intel accompanied the blind in a “fun walk” from St Nicholas Home to Pulau Tikus market and back.
State Health, Welfare and Caring Society Committee chairman P.K. Subbaiyah said although awareness on the needs of blind persons was higher, blind-friendly facilities were still lacking.
“We need to make the surroundings friendly to the blind, so that they can enjoy a better quality of life,’’ he said at the White Cane Day celebration at St Nicholas Home for the Blind in Bagan Jermal here.
He represented Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Abdul Rashid Abdullah. The White Cane Day was on Oct 15 but the celebration was postponed due to the fasting month.
Subbaiyah called on the public to show their caring attitude towards blind people.
“It is displeasing to note that some motorists refuse to stop their vehicles to give way for blind pedestrians to cross the road,” he said adding that some motorists parked their cars in the middle of walkways, posing obstacles to the blind.
“We must do everything we can to help the blind,’’ he said while lauding non-governmental organisations and corporate bodies, including Intel which were involved in helping the poor.
Some 100 staff from Intel accompanied the blind in a “fun walk” from St Nicholas Home to Pulau Tikus market and back.
A true friend of the Befrienders
Star: MALACCA: Apart from investing in a furniture factory here, a Taiwanese man has also put his money into the business of helping the depressed by supporting Befrienders Malacca.
The 57-year-old, who only wanted to be known as Cheng, has donated RM100,000 to help the counselling group move into a centre of its own in Ujong Pasir.
“I have enough money for my own wants and my family’s needs. Rather than spending the money frivolously or just investing it to acquire more profits, why not put it to good use?” he said.
Cheng, a member of the Tzu-Chi Buddhist group in Taiwan, did not merely give cash to the group.
He also roped in a local contractor, Sheng Yong Engineering Works Sdn Bhd, to renovate the new centre, providing work worth some RM40,000 for free.
Chen visited the centre twice while the renovations were ongoing to make suggestions on what could be done to make the place more comfortable.
“I know I could have just donated the money and not given it further thought, but I felt I should help in every little way. We should all contribute to the best of our abilities,” he said.
Befrienders centres worldwide provide emotional support to the depressed.
As a result of his efforts, the Malacca group moved into its new home on Dec 11 and is now able to extend its services from just phone counselling to include face-to-face sessions.
Volunteer Amy Lee, who had approached Cheng, said the group would not have been able to get the centre, a 20-year-old house – purchased for RM130,000 – without his help.
“I was speechless and could not believe it when he told me he wanted to give RM100,000. I thought it was a dream,” she added.
According to Cheng, he had been moved by her account of two Befrienders Malacca volunteers who had rushed to a high-rise apartment to save a suicidal man after receiving a call from him.
He said while he also donated to other charities, including Tzu Chi, he was supporting the Befrienders because people with troubles did not always approach religious bodies.
“If they can help people just by listening to them, then I’ll consider the money well spent,” he said.
Apart from Cheng and the contractor, a painter also chipped in by charging the group just RM500 to repaint the centre.
The 57-year-old, who only wanted to be known as Cheng, has donated RM100,000 to help the counselling group move into a centre of its own in Ujong Pasir.
“I have enough money for my own wants and my family’s needs. Rather than spending the money frivolously or just investing it to acquire more profits, why not put it to good use?” he said.
Cheng, a member of the Tzu-Chi Buddhist group in Taiwan, did not merely give cash to the group.
He also roped in a local contractor, Sheng Yong Engineering Works Sdn Bhd, to renovate the new centre, providing work worth some RM40,000 for free.
Chen visited the centre twice while the renovations were ongoing to make suggestions on what could be done to make the place more comfortable.
“I know I could have just donated the money and not given it further thought, but I felt I should help in every little way. We should all contribute to the best of our abilities,” he said.
Befrienders centres worldwide provide emotional support to the depressed.
As a result of his efforts, the Malacca group moved into its new home on Dec 11 and is now able to extend its services from just phone counselling to include face-to-face sessions.
Volunteer Amy Lee, who had approached Cheng, said the group would not have been able to get the centre, a 20-year-old house – purchased for RM130,000 – without his help.
“I was speechless and could not believe it when he told me he wanted to give RM100,000. I thought it was a dream,” she added.
According to Cheng, he had been moved by her account of two Befrienders Malacca volunteers who had rushed to a high-rise apartment to save a suicidal man after receiving a call from him.
He said while he also donated to other charities, including Tzu Chi, he was supporting the Befrienders because people with troubles did not always approach religious bodies.
“If they can help people just by listening to them, then I’ll consider the money well spent,” he said.
Apart from Cheng and the contractor, a painter also chipped in by charging the group just RM500 to repaint the centre.
Saturday, December 17, 2005
MMA Founder Member Gets International Recognition
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 17 (Bernama) -- Past president of the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Datuk Dr T. P. Devaraj has won recognition for his work as one of 65 "Caring Physicians of the World".
"He is the first doctor from Southeast Asia, and the first from Malaysia, to be selected," treasurer of the MMA's Penang branch Dr S. P. Palaniappan said Saturday.
Penang-based Devaraj, an MMA founder member, was one of 65 physicians selected from 55 member countries of the World Medical Association (which has 84 national medical associations as its members) and featured in a book, "Caring Physicians of the World".
A copy of the book was presented to him at an award ceremony at the Penang Club earlier this month and a citation would be made at the MMA's national AGM in June next year, Palaniappan told Bernama. Devaraj was in government service from 1952 until 1979.
"He is vice-chairman of the National Cancer Society and has been fully devoted to the hospice home care programme in Penang, caring for patients with cancer or other terminal illnesses and providing moral support, comfort and solace," said Palaniappan.
"He is the first doctor from Southeast Asia, and the first from Malaysia, to be selected," treasurer of the MMA's Penang branch Dr S. P. Palaniappan said Saturday.
Penang-based Devaraj, an MMA founder member, was one of 65 physicians selected from 55 member countries of the World Medical Association (which has 84 national medical associations as its members) and featured in a book, "Caring Physicians of the World".
A copy of the book was presented to him at an award ceremony at the Penang Club earlier this month and a citation would be made at the MMA's national AGM in June next year, Palaniappan told Bernama. Devaraj was in government service from 1952 until 1979.
"He is vice-chairman of the National Cancer Society and has been fully devoted to the hospice home care programme in Penang, caring for patients with cancer or other terminal illnesses and providing moral support, comfort and solace," said Palaniappan.
Friday, December 16, 2005
Pacts on health and education cooperation inked
The Star: PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China have signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on cooperation in health and education.
The MoU on health will allow the two countries to work more closely in such areas as the control of infectious diseases, pharmaceuticals, primary healthcare, medical and health research development, food safety and traditional and complementary medicine.
The MoU on health will allow the two countries to work more closely in such areas as the control of infectious diseases, pharmaceuticals, primary healthcare, medical and health research development, food safety and traditional and complementary medicine.
Two Private Specialist Hospitals For Terengganu Next Year
KUALA TERENGGANU, Dec 16 (Bernama) -- Patients in Terengganu no longer have to seek specialist treatment in Kelantan or Pahang when two private specialist hospitals open here next year.
State Welfare, Health, Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Rosol Wahid said Friday that the hospitals, located in Jalan Batas Baru and Jalan Kamaruddin, would be operational in September.
Speaking to reporters after closing a Gastroenterology Symposium at the Kuala Terengganu Hospital (KTH) Day Care Treatment Centre here, he urged patients who were better off patients to go to the private hospitals so that the low-income patients could go to the government hospitals.
He said the state government would contribute 60 beds for the isolation ward of the hospital next next year to house suffering from dengue fever, bird flu and diarrhoea.
He also said that the operation theatres at the Kuala Terengganu and Kemaman hospitals had been repaired and would be operational soon.
State Welfare, Health, Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Rosol Wahid said Friday that the hospitals, located in Jalan Batas Baru and Jalan Kamaruddin, would be operational in September.
Speaking to reporters after closing a Gastroenterology Symposium at the Kuala Terengganu Hospital (KTH) Day Care Treatment Centre here, he urged patients who were better off patients to go to the private hospitals so that the low-income patients could go to the government hospitals.
He said the state government would contribute 60 beds for the isolation ward of the hospital next next year to house suffering from dengue fever, bird flu and diarrhoea.
He also said that the operation theatres at the Kuala Terengganu and Kemaman hospitals had been repaired and would be operational soon.
PSD Refers To A-G 44 Medical Students Who Remain Abroad
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 15 (Bernama) -- The Public Service Department (PSD) has referred to the Attorney General (A-G)'s Office the case of 44 PSD sponsored medical students who failed to return after completing their studies overseas.
Parliamentary Secretary in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Mohd Johari Baharum said the students did not apply to defer their return to Malaysia adding that their act violated the terms of agreement with the PSD.
"The government has agreed to allow students to stay back for between one and four years but with permission from the PSD and on several conditions," he said in reply to a question by Tay Puay Chuan at the Dewan Negara Thursday.
He said the conditions, among others, was that the students were pursuing studies at a higher level or waiting for their spouses to complete their studies or training.
After which, he added, the students would be required to return home and to register their names with the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) to facilitate their appointment in the civil service.
There were 264 Malaysian medical students abroad who did not return after completing their studies. They were among 165 students whose applications to stay back were rejected.
Mohd Johari said government-sponsored students who failed to return after completing their studies would have to pay back all the cost incurred which included for their study fees, allowance and flight tickets.
"Previously in 2003, such students will be fined RM160,000 but now they will have to pay for all the costs, including allowance.
"For example, the cost of studying medicine in Ireland is almost RM1 million, as such they will have to pay that amount," he added.
Parliamentary Secretary in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Mohd Johari Baharum said the students did not apply to defer their return to Malaysia adding that their act violated the terms of agreement with the PSD.
"The government has agreed to allow students to stay back for between one and four years but with permission from the PSD and on several conditions," he said in reply to a question by Tay Puay Chuan at the Dewan Negara Thursday.
He said the conditions, among others, was that the students were pursuing studies at a higher level or waiting for their spouses to complete their studies or training.
After which, he added, the students would be required to return home and to register their names with the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) to facilitate their appointment in the civil service.
There were 264 Malaysian medical students abroad who did not return after completing their studies. They were among 165 students whose applications to stay back were rejected.
Mohd Johari said government-sponsored students who failed to return after completing their studies would have to pay back all the cost incurred which included for their study fees, allowance and flight tickets.
"Previously in 2003, such students will be fined RM160,000 but now they will have to pay for all the costs, including allowance.
"For example, the cost of studying medicine in Ireland is almost RM1 million, as such they will have to pay that amount," he added.
Thursday, December 15, 2005
Endon's Death Triggers Awareness On Cancer
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 15 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister's wife Datin Seri Endon Mahmood's death due to breast cancer last Oct 20 was wept by the nation and sparked off awareness among the public of how dangerous the disease can be.
It also got various quarters, both from the government and the private sector, organising programmes to encourage the public to make early check-up for cancer as well as calls for research to find an antidote for the disease.
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, not wanting others to suffer like his beloved wife, had also expressed the need for more research in health care, particularly in prevention and treatment of cancer, for the benefit of the poor.
Towards this end, the Health Ministry is in the final stages of presenting to the government an Action Plan on Cancer Prevention which contained, among others, diagnosis, treatment, herbs and traditional medicines which could be used in cancer treatment.
The Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) had embarked on a large scale herbal farming to identify plants which could be used as antidote for cancer while the Malaysian Cancer Council (MAKNA) had allocated RM1.1 million for the setting up of a mobile team for cancer checks.
MAKNA president Datuk Mohd Farid Ariffin said an alternative method for treatment of cancer should be identified for those who could not afford modern treatment, which was costly.
Besides cancer, there was also concern over dengue cases with more than 1,000 people reported infected by the disease every week early this year.
Until last October, the number of dengue cases reported in the country was 34,485, including 1,736 dengue haemorrhagic cases, with 86 deaths compared to the same period last year with 26,870 cases and 84 deaths.
Selangor recorded the highest number of cases (11,367 with 24 deaths), followed by the Federal Territory (5,027 cases with 14 deaths) and Penang (3,129 cases with seven deaths).
The year 2005 also saw the government intensifying efforts to check the spread of HIV/Aids. One of them was providing free syringes and condoms for drug addicts.
Statistics showed that 18 people died of HIV/AIDS everyday in the country with the number of HIV patients expected to increase to 300,000 by 2015 from 65,000 people currently.
The spread of the Avian Influenza or bird-flu in several neighbouring countries had also put Malaysia on the alert throughout the year.
Although no case had been detected in the country, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that 133 people had been infected by the disease until Nov 29. Sixty-eight of them died.
Among the measures taken by the Health Ministry was to monitor cases of influenza-like illnesses.
The ministry also produced a document on "National Influanza Pandemic Preparedness Plan" (NIPPP) which outlined guidelines to be observed in preventing the outbreak of the bird-flu in the country.
The Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Ministry is also drafting an enactment, which among others, would require individuals to obtain licence to rear chicken and for slaughtering of chicken be done only at designated government and private slaughter-houses.
It also got various quarters, both from the government and the private sector, organising programmes to encourage the public to make early check-up for cancer as well as calls for research to find an antidote for the disease.
Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, not wanting others to suffer like his beloved wife, had also expressed the need for more research in health care, particularly in prevention and treatment of cancer, for the benefit of the poor.
Towards this end, the Health Ministry is in the final stages of presenting to the government an Action Plan on Cancer Prevention which contained, among others, diagnosis, treatment, herbs and traditional medicines which could be used in cancer treatment.
The Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) had embarked on a large scale herbal farming to identify plants which could be used as antidote for cancer while the Malaysian Cancer Council (MAKNA) had allocated RM1.1 million for the setting up of a mobile team for cancer checks.
MAKNA president Datuk Mohd Farid Ariffin said an alternative method for treatment of cancer should be identified for those who could not afford modern treatment, which was costly.
Besides cancer, there was also concern over dengue cases with more than 1,000 people reported infected by the disease every week early this year.
Until last October, the number of dengue cases reported in the country was 34,485, including 1,736 dengue haemorrhagic cases, with 86 deaths compared to the same period last year with 26,870 cases and 84 deaths.
Selangor recorded the highest number of cases (11,367 with 24 deaths), followed by the Federal Territory (5,027 cases with 14 deaths) and Penang (3,129 cases with seven deaths).
The year 2005 also saw the government intensifying efforts to check the spread of HIV/Aids. One of them was providing free syringes and condoms for drug addicts.
Statistics showed that 18 people died of HIV/AIDS everyday in the country with the number of HIV patients expected to increase to 300,000 by 2015 from 65,000 people currently.
The spread of the Avian Influenza or bird-flu in several neighbouring countries had also put Malaysia on the alert throughout the year.
Although no case had been detected in the country, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that 133 people had been infected by the disease until Nov 29. Sixty-eight of them died.
Among the measures taken by the Health Ministry was to monitor cases of influenza-like illnesses.
The ministry also produced a document on "National Influanza Pandemic Preparedness Plan" (NIPPP) which outlined guidelines to be observed in preventing the outbreak of the bird-flu in the country.
The Agriculture and Agro-Based Industry Ministry is also drafting an enactment, which among others, would require individuals to obtain licence to rear chicken and for slaughtering of chicken be done only at designated government and private slaughter-houses.
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Kiwanis to set up centre in Ipoh
Sun2Surf: IPOH: An average of 86 babies in the state are born with Down's syndrome every year and this has prompted the Kiwanis Down's Syndrome Foundation to establish its first centre in the northern area.
Kiwanis Club of Ipoh president Steven Chong said the centre is scheduled to open next year and initially take in 50 children at an estimated operational cost of RM100,000 in its first year.
He urged the parents of such children here, Penang and Kedah to enrol their children in an infant development or early intervention programme.
"The progamme offers special instruction in teaching language, cognitive skills, self-help and social skills. The centre is open to those aged between one and six years," Chong said.
"Appropriate programmes administered by parents to their children during the early developmental stages will improve the children's chances of developing their fullest potential.
"Our objective is also to see that parents are given professional counselling. Many are already seeking help as to how they can understand and care better for their children.
The centre will be the seventh started by the foundation. The others are in Petaling Jaya (headquarters), Klang, Malacca, Johor Baru, Seremban and Kota Kinabalu.
"The club has embarked on several programmes to raise funds to meet the expenses," he said.
Kiwanis Ipoh is organising a charity dinner on Dec 18 at the Bougainvillae Counrty Club to raise RM20,000.
Sunway City, Giant Superstore, the Lost World of Tambun and the club are jointly organising a charity run on Jan 22 to raise RM50,000.
For details, call Chong at 012-5883386, Ng Bee Keong at 019-3116650 or Tony Goh at 012-5663722.
Kiwanis Club of Ipoh president Steven Chong said the centre is scheduled to open next year and initially take in 50 children at an estimated operational cost of RM100,000 in its first year.
He urged the parents of such children here, Penang and Kedah to enrol their children in an infant development or early intervention programme.
"The progamme offers special instruction in teaching language, cognitive skills, self-help and social skills. The centre is open to those aged between one and six years," Chong said.
"Appropriate programmes administered by parents to their children during the early developmental stages will improve the children's chances of developing their fullest potential.
"Our objective is also to see that parents are given professional counselling. Many are already seeking help as to how they can understand and care better for their children.
The centre will be the seventh started by the foundation. The others are in Petaling Jaya (headquarters), Klang, Malacca, Johor Baru, Seremban and Kota Kinabalu.
"The club has embarked on several programmes to raise funds to meet the expenses," he said.
Kiwanis Ipoh is organising a charity dinner on Dec 18 at the Bougainvillae Counrty Club to raise RM20,000.
Sunway City, Giant Superstore, the Lost World of Tambun and the club are jointly organising a charity run on Jan 22 to raise RM50,000.
For details, call Chong at 012-5883386, Ng Bee Keong at 019-3116650 or Tony Goh at 012-5663722.
Medical Expert Says No Need For Ear Squats To Remove Items
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 14 (Bernama) -- A medical expert Wednesday told the Commission of Inquiry probing a video clip of a woman forced to do ear squats in the nude at the Petaling Jaya police station that there was no need to do ear squats to discharge foreign items inserted in the vagina or rectum.
Dr Zainab Samsuddin, an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist with the Kuala Lumpur Hospital, said that squatting alone was sufficient to eject foreign objects from the rectum and vagina and that ear squats in fact had a high probability of retaining these items.
"This is because in a squatting position the pelvic muscles relax, allowing any foreign object to be ejected. When a person stands these muscles contract, so when a ear squat is performed the muscle contracts and relaxes so this is not much use for ejecting the object. With squatting alone, the objects are easier to come out," she said.
She was testifying before the commission headed by former chief justice Tun Mohamed Dzaiddin Abdullah and comprising former MCA deputy president Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek, former Bar Council president Kuthubul Zaman Bukhari, Wanita Umno legal bureau chief Datuk Kamilia Ibrahim and Datuk Hamzah Mohamed Rus, who serves as secretary.
Dr Zainab said that a person with good pelvic muscle control could retain a foreign object in the rectum or vagina but if the person was made to squat for a longer period the inserted object would eventually come out.
"Not only is the position important but most important is the strength of the pelvic muscle of the person. But chances are higher (that a foreign object could be expelled from the body) if the person was squatting. Ear squat would only nullify the effects of squatting," she added.
She said that while the number of ear squats done by a person was not a matter of concern, the duration in which a person squats played a major role in retrieving objects hidden in the orifices.
She said doing ear squats did not mean that foreign objects hidden in the rectum or vagina would be expelled from the body but in reverse, objects could be retained.
Holding the ear while doing ear squats did not have any bearing on expelling foreign objects hidden in the vagina or rectum as holding the ear was just to stabilise the person while doing the ear squats.
"Ear squats have a sound basis. I won't say that it is not effective at all but squatting is a faster and easier way to get foreign objects hidden in the rectum or vagina out of the body," she added.
She said that to improve the procedure of removing hidden foreign objects from the rectum or vagina, one had only to squat and cough as the pressure of the cough would help eject the foreign object.
The commission also heard the testimony of Assoc Prof Dr Ashraf Mohamed Hashim, an expert in Islamic studies attached to the International Islamic University Malaysia.
From a religious point of view, Ashraf said that displaying one's "aurat" was wrong, unless it was absolutely necessary.
He was asked by the commission if a suspect could be stripped naked and a search conducted on the person's body.
"Even when there is a necessity, it should not be total. The degree in which a person could be stripped is not conclusive. A person can only be stripped to a needed degree.
"Doing ear squat is allowed but only when it is necessary. Body search is also allowed by Islam but there must be reasonable suspicion that the person did indeed commit an offence," he added.
Dr Ashraf said there was no need for a person to expose her top while doing ear squats.
He suggested that suspects use an apron-like garment as this was allowed from the "syarak" point of view.
He said doing ear squats naked should be corrected by the police as it was incorrect from the religious point of view.
Dr Zainab Samsuddin, an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist with the Kuala Lumpur Hospital, said that squatting alone was sufficient to eject foreign objects from the rectum and vagina and that ear squats in fact had a high probability of retaining these items.
"This is because in a squatting position the pelvic muscles relax, allowing any foreign object to be ejected. When a person stands these muscles contract, so when a ear squat is performed the muscle contracts and relaxes so this is not much use for ejecting the object. With squatting alone, the objects are easier to come out," she said.
She was testifying before the commission headed by former chief justice Tun Mohamed Dzaiddin Abdullah and comprising former MCA deputy president Tan Sri Lim Ah Lek, former Bar Council president Kuthubul Zaman Bukhari, Wanita Umno legal bureau chief Datuk Kamilia Ibrahim and Datuk Hamzah Mohamed Rus, who serves as secretary.
Dr Zainab said that a person with good pelvic muscle control could retain a foreign object in the rectum or vagina but if the person was made to squat for a longer period the inserted object would eventually come out.
"Not only is the position important but most important is the strength of the pelvic muscle of the person. But chances are higher (that a foreign object could be expelled from the body) if the person was squatting. Ear squat would only nullify the effects of squatting," she added.
She said that while the number of ear squats done by a person was not a matter of concern, the duration in which a person squats played a major role in retrieving objects hidden in the orifices.
She said doing ear squats did not mean that foreign objects hidden in the rectum or vagina would be expelled from the body but in reverse, objects could be retained.
Holding the ear while doing ear squats did not have any bearing on expelling foreign objects hidden in the vagina or rectum as holding the ear was just to stabilise the person while doing the ear squats.
"Ear squats have a sound basis. I won't say that it is not effective at all but squatting is a faster and easier way to get foreign objects hidden in the rectum or vagina out of the body," she added.
She said that to improve the procedure of removing hidden foreign objects from the rectum or vagina, one had only to squat and cough as the pressure of the cough would help eject the foreign object.
The commission also heard the testimony of Assoc Prof Dr Ashraf Mohamed Hashim, an expert in Islamic studies attached to the International Islamic University Malaysia.
From a religious point of view, Ashraf said that displaying one's "aurat" was wrong, unless it was absolutely necessary.
He was asked by the commission if a suspect could be stripped naked and a search conducted on the person's body.
"Even when there is a necessity, it should not be total. The degree in which a person could be stripped is not conclusive. A person can only be stripped to a needed degree.
"Doing ear squat is allowed but only when it is necessary. Body search is also allowed by Islam but there must be reasonable suspicion that the person did indeed commit an offence," he added.
Dr Ashraf said there was no need for a person to expose her top while doing ear squats.
He suggested that suspects use an apron-like garment as this was allowed from the "syarak" point of view.
He said doing ear squats naked should be corrected by the police as it was incorrect from the religious point of view.
Health plan to be modelled after Socso
Star: KUALA KANGSAR: The proposed National Health Financing Scheme (NHFS) is likely to be modelled after the EPF and Socso schemes in which “eligible” employees make monthly payments through a deduction from the salary.
An expert was now determining the category of people who would be required to make contributions, Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said.
“Will it be those earning RM3,000 or RM5,000 monthly who will be designated as people who can afford to pay? The details are being determined by the expert, who will study all the implications.”
He stressed that not all Malaysians need to pay for medical expenses, as the scheme was not a privatisation move.
Speaking to reporters yesterday after visiting Kuala Kangsar Hospital, Chua said he did not know how some non-governmental organisations, which had criticised the scheme, had gotten the idea that it would take off next year.
“The scheme is still being discussed. Who says it will be carried out in 2006?” he asked.
Defending the scheme, Dr Chua said it was high time that the existing healthcare system provided at government hospitals be revamped as it was being abused by those who could actually afford to pay for their medical expenses.
“There is no other system in the world like what we have here in Malaysia, where a patient just pays RM1,” he said.
A group called the Coalition Against Healthcare Privatisation had noted that the Government had yet to reveal details like the quantum of payment, although the scheme would cover everyone (except civil servants, the disabled and the poor).
Earlier, addressing doctors, nurses and staff of the hospital, Dr Chua said the Government's healthcare expenditure was expected to rise to RM10bil by 2010.
“We can’t go on with the present system as it won’t be sustainable,” he said, adding that medicines alone had cost the Government RM800mil this year compared with RM300mil about 10 years ago.
An expert was now determining the category of people who would be required to make contributions, Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said.
“Will it be those earning RM3,000 or RM5,000 monthly who will be designated as people who can afford to pay? The details are being determined by the expert, who will study all the implications.”
He stressed that not all Malaysians need to pay for medical expenses, as the scheme was not a privatisation move.
Speaking to reporters yesterday after visiting Kuala Kangsar Hospital, Chua said he did not know how some non-governmental organisations, which had criticised the scheme, had gotten the idea that it would take off next year.
“The scheme is still being discussed. Who says it will be carried out in 2006?” he asked.
Defending the scheme, Dr Chua said it was high time that the existing healthcare system provided at government hospitals be revamped as it was being abused by those who could actually afford to pay for their medical expenses.
“There is no other system in the world like what we have here in Malaysia, where a patient just pays RM1,” he said.
A group called the Coalition Against Healthcare Privatisation had noted that the Government had yet to reveal details like the quantum of payment, although the scheme would cover everyone (except civil servants, the disabled and the poor).
Earlier, addressing doctors, nurses and staff of the hospital, Dr Chua said the Government's healthcare expenditure was expected to rise to RM10bil by 2010.
“We can’t go on with the present system as it won’t be sustainable,” he said, adding that medicines alone had cost the Government RM800mil this year compared with RM300mil about 10 years ago.
Adeeba to become new president of AIDS Council
The Star - KUALA LUMPUR: Although she knows that she is stepping into “very, very big shoes” when she takes over as president of the Malaysian AIDS Council, Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman knows that she can take on the job.
“It is an honour and I hope I can do justice to the seat. I recognise that there is a lot I can contribute. I was surprised about the appointment although Marina had ‘warned’ me about it,” she told The Star in an interview recently.
Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir will step down as council president on Jan 1.
Her position as Malaysian AIDS Foundation chairman, which she has also vacated, has not been filled yet.
Dr Adeeba, who is head of the infectious diseases unit at the University Malaya Medical Centre, also heads the Malaysian Harm Reduction Working Group which advocates evidence-based public health policies on HIV prevention and treatment and care for drug users.
In addition, she chairs the Therapeutics Research, Education and AIDS Training in Asia steering committee – a network of clinics, hospitals, and research institutions working to ensure the safe and effective delivery of HIV/AIDS treatments in the Asia-Pacific region via research, education and training programmes.
Dr Adeeba obtained her medical degree from Monash University in Australia and trained in internal medicine at the Monash Medical Centre.
She then took up sub-speciality training in infectious diseases at the Fairfield Infectious Diseases Hospital and Austin Hospital in Melbourne.
She obtained her fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 1995.
She returned to Malaysia in 1996 to become a lecturer on general medicine and infectious diseases in Universiti Malaya and set up one of the first infectious diseases units in Malaysia.
Dr Adeeba is married to banker Umar Swift and they have two sons – Luqman, eight, and Karim, six.
“It is an honour and I hope I can do justice to the seat. I recognise that there is a lot I can contribute. I was surprised about the appointment although Marina had ‘warned’ me about it,” she told The Star in an interview recently.
Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir will step down as council president on Jan 1.
Her position as Malaysian AIDS Foundation chairman, which she has also vacated, has not been filled yet.
Dr Adeeba, who is head of the infectious diseases unit at the University Malaya Medical Centre, also heads the Malaysian Harm Reduction Working Group which advocates evidence-based public health policies on HIV prevention and treatment and care for drug users.
In addition, she chairs the Therapeutics Research, Education and AIDS Training in Asia steering committee – a network of clinics, hospitals, and research institutions working to ensure the safe and effective delivery of HIV/AIDS treatments in the Asia-Pacific region via research, education and training programmes.
Dr Adeeba obtained her medical degree from Monash University in Australia and trained in internal medicine at the Monash Medical Centre.
She then took up sub-speciality training in infectious diseases at the Fairfield Infectious Diseases Hospital and Austin Hospital in Melbourne.
She obtained her fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 1995.
She returned to Malaysia in 1996 to become a lecturer on general medicine and infectious diseases in Universiti Malaya and set up one of the first infectious diseases units in Malaysia.
Dr Adeeba is married to banker Umar Swift and they have two sons – Luqman, eight, and Karim, six.
Group demands details on national health scheme
SunNSurf:PETALING JAYA: Fearful that the proposed National Health Financing Scheme will be forced down the people's throat, a lobby group wants full details and consultation before implementation.
The Coalition Against Health Care Privatisation said until today, details like the quantum of payment and the extent of coverage are still under wraps.
Chairman of the group's steering committee, Dr Subramaniam Pillay, said the Health Ministry has not outlined the mechanics of the proposed scheme, expected to come into force next year.
Under the scheme, everyone, except civil servants, the disabled, hardcore poor and the unemployed will have to pay full fees for medical treatment at government hospitals.
Subramaniam said the proposed scheme comprises seven main components:
* National Health Fund -- to disburse payments for medical treatment provided by government and private hospitals and clinics for illnesses listed under the "Essential Health Benefit Package".
* Mandatory monthly contributions -- paid by every wage earner, except government employees, pensioners, the poor and handicapped.
* Essential health benefit packages -- illnesses covered but no details yet.
* Restructured government hospitals and clinics -- no details yet.
* Private sector healthcare -- the National Health Fund will also make payments for visits to general practitioners, but Ministry of Health has yet to decide whether payments will be on a fee-for-service or on a capitation basis.
* Private insurance for extra coverage -- those who can afford can buy additional insurance coverage for treatment of conditions not in the Essential Health Benefit Package.
* The National Health Financing Authority -- a new body set up to oversee the overall administration and evaluation of the new healthcare system.
Subramaniam said a foreign consultant has been appointed to look into details, such as the quantum, criteria and ceiling of contributions, the collection mechanism, the basic health packages and the payment mechanism for the clinics and hospitals.
He said however the identity of the person is kept a secret. "Why is this so?"
He said there needs to be transparency is this issue, as the public has to start paying for basic medical services once the scheme comes into effect. For more on the issue, log on to www.aliran.com/health/.
The Coalition Against Health Care Privatisation said until today, details like the quantum of payment and the extent of coverage are still under wraps.
Chairman of the group's steering committee, Dr Subramaniam Pillay, said the Health Ministry has not outlined the mechanics of the proposed scheme, expected to come into force next year.
Under the scheme, everyone, except civil servants, the disabled, hardcore poor and the unemployed will have to pay full fees for medical treatment at government hospitals.
Subramaniam said the proposed scheme comprises seven main components:
* National Health Fund -- to disburse payments for medical treatment provided by government and private hospitals and clinics for illnesses listed under the "Essential Health Benefit Package".
* Mandatory monthly contributions -- paid by every wage earner, except government employees, pensioners, the poor and handicapped.
* Essential health benefit packages -- illnesses covered but no details yet.
* Restructured government hospitals and clinics -- no details yet.
* Private sector healthcare -- the National Health Fund will also make payments for visits to general practitioners, but Ministry of Health has yet to decide whether payments will be on a fee-for-service or on a capitation basis.
* Private insurance for extra coverage -- those who can afford can buy additional insurance coverage for treatment of conditions not in the Essential Health Benefit Package.
* The National Health Financing Authority -- a new body set up to oversee the overall administration and evaluation of the new healthcare system.
Subramaniam said a foreign consultant has been appointed to look into details, such as the quantum, criteria and ceiling of contributions, the collection mechanism, the basic health packages and the payment mechanism for the clinics and hospitals.
He said however the identity of the person is kept a secret. "Why is this so?"
He said there needs to be transparency is this issue, as the public has to start paying for basic medical services once the scheme comes into effect. For more on the issue, log on to www.aliran.com/health/.
Ministry To Proceed With No-Smoking Campaign
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- The Health Ministry will continue with its "Tak Nak"" smoking campaign despite it failing to discourage the public, especially youngsters, from the habit.
Parliamentary secretary Lee Kah Choon said the ministry would continue with the campaign through the media and education programmes in schools.
Education was the most suitable way to instil awareness among youngsters of the dangers of smoking, he said in reply to senator Hassan Shukri on the no-smoking campaign in the Dewan Negara, Tuesday.
Lee said there was an increase in cigarette smokers among youngsters and women.
"Women smokers increased to eight per cent from four per cent previously," he added.
Parliamentary secretary Lee Kah Choon said the ministry would continue with the campaign through the media and education programmes in schools.
Education was the most suitable way to instil awareness among youngsters of the dangers of smoking, he said in reply to senator Hassan Shukri on the no-smoking campaign in the Dewan Negara, Tuesday.
Lee said there was an increase in cigarette smokers among youngsters and women.
"Women smokers increased to eight per cent from four per cent previously," he added.
EAS Leaders To Pledge To Prevent Avian Flu Pandemic
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- Concerned over the spread of the deadly avian flu virus, leaders of the 16 countries attending the inaugural East Asia Summit here on Wednesday are likely to pledge to join forces and possibly prevent the occurrence of a regional or, possibly, global pandemic.
To this end, they would take steps to enhance capacity-building in coping with a pandemic avian influenza, including establishing information-sharing protocols among countries and multilateral organisations.
Asean diplomats preparing for the EAS tomorrow said the move would be aimed at ensuring effective, timely and meaningful communication before or during a pandemic of the avian influenza, which so far has killed more than 70 people in Asia.
Their concern and pledge to do something about the disease were expected to be contained in a declaration to be issued following the summit relating to the prevention, control and response to the disease.
The EAS would be attended by the 10 Asean states, China, Japan and South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Countries affected by avian flu include Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, China, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.
The latter three have announced control of their poultry outbreaks and are now considered free of the disease while in the other countries outbreaks are continuing with varying degrees of severity.
India was also not spared the disease while Russia, whose president Vladimir Putin would address the EAS leaders before their retreat, reported its first outbreak in July this year.
The leaders are also expected to establish national and regional avian flu pandemic preparedness strategies and clearly defined work plans and resource requirements.
However, the declaration is expected to highlight that strong political will was crucial to carry out these strategies.
They would also agree to set up a network of stockpiles of antiviral drugs with the technical support of the World Health Organisation to effectively prevent a pandemic.
To this end, they would take steps to enhance capacity-building in coping with a pandemic avian influenza, including establishing information-sharing protocols among countries and multilateral organisations.
Asean diplomats preparing for the EAS tomorrow said the move would be aimed at ensuring effective, timely and meaningful communication before or during a pandemic of the avian influenza, which so far has killed more than 70 people in Asia.
Their concern and pledge to do something about the disease were expected to be contained in a declaration to be issued following the summit relating to the prevention, control and response to the disease.
The EAS would be attended by the 10 Asean states, China, Japan and South Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand.
Countries affected by avian flu include Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, China, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.
The latter three have announced control of their poultry outbreaks and are now considered free of the disease while in the other countries outbreaks are continuing with varying degrees of severity.
India was also not spared the disease while Russia, whose president Vladimir Putin would address the EAS leaders before their retreat, reported its first outbreak in July this year.
The leaders are also expected to establish national and regional avian flu pandemic preparedness strategies and clearly defined work plans and resource requirements.
However, the declaration is expected to highlight that strong political will was crucial to carry out these strategies.
They would also agree to set up a network of stockpiles of antiviral drugs with the technical support of the World Health Organisation to effectively prevent a pandemic.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
Perak Spends 90 Pct Health Ministry's Allocation Under 8MP
IPOH, Dec 13 (Bernama) -- Perak had shown the best performance in the Health Ministry's development project when it utilised 90 per cent of its Eighth Malaysia Plan (8MP) allocation.
Health Minister Datuk Chua Soi Lek said, till this year Perak had spent RM359 million worth of funds allocated for it.
"This means that 112 projects have been completed, 24 still ongoing and only 29 projects would be carried forward to the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP)," he told reporters at a dinner function at Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Tajol Rosli Ghazali's residence Monday night.
Dr Chua attributed the excellent achievement to the good cooperation and support from the state government.
"Throughout the 8MP, a total 240 hectares of titled lands in Perak have been given to the Health Ministry with a premium rate of RM8 million only," he said.
The low premium rate had been the factor why the projects in Perak were able to be implemented smoothly, he said.
"We are confident that with continuous cooperation from the state government, the projects under the 9MP would go smoothly as well."
A total of RM559 million worth of projects have been approved under the 9MP for Perak, among others are the Federal Health College in Ipoh costing RM120 million, Lintang Health Clinic (RM21 million) and three health clinics in Larut, Matang and Selama districts costing a total of RM36 million.
Also being planned are the upgrading of Parit Buntar and Kampar hospitals and the construction of Seri Iskandar Hospital, he added.
Health Minister Datuk Chua Soi Lek said, till this year Perak had spent RM359 million worth of funds allocated for it.
"This means that 112 projects have been completed, 24 still ongoing and only 29 projects would be carried forward to the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP)," he told reporters at a dinner function at Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Tajol Rosli Ghazali's residence Monday night.
Dr Chua attributed the excellent achievement to the good cooperation and support from the state government.
"Throughout the 8MP, a total 240 hectares of titled lands in Perak have been given to the Health Ministry with a premium rate of RM8 million only," he said.
The low premium rate had been the factor why the projects in Perak were able to be implemented smoothly, he said.
"We are confident that with continuous cooperation from the state government, the projects under the 9MP would go smoothly as well."
A total of RM559 million worth of projects have been approved under the 9MP for Perak, among others are the Federal Health College in Ipoh costing RM120 million, Lintang Health Clinic (RM21 million) and three health clinics in Larut, Matang and Selama districts costing a total of RM36 million.
Also being planned are the upgrading of Parit Buntar and Kampar hospitals and the construction of Seri Iskandar Hospital, he added.
Malaysia moots KL for WHO bird flu centre
Star: KUALA LUMPUR: Concerned with the spread of avian flu, Malaysia wants to set up a regional World Health Organisation (WHO) Collaborating Centre for the disease here, with the support of its Asean counterparts.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said since the existing WHO reference centres for human flu were located outside the Asean region, the one on avian flu should be set up in the region.
He said Malaysia had expressed this intention at the WHO meeting on avian flu in Geneva last month.
“With both alert systems for animal and human flu in one country, it will greatly enhance the early warning mechanism for influenza surveillance in the region.
“It will be Malaysia’s contribution towards global health security,” the Prime Minister said in his opening remarks at the 11th Asean Summit yesterday.
Meanwhile, it is understood that a draft joint declaration by Asean and East Asia Summit (EAS) leaders on avian flu seeks to co-operate in providing rapid, transparent, and accurate risk communication among the participating countries.
It also calls for improving national policies for the prevention and control of emerging infectious diseases and support to all participating nations.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said since the existing WHO reference centres for human flu were located outside the Asean region, the one on avian flu should be set up in the region.
He said Malaysia had expressed this intention at the WHO meeting on avian flu in Geneva last month.
“With both alert systems for animal and human flu in one country, it will greatly enhance the early warning mechanism for influenza surveillance in the region.
“It will be Malaysia’s contribution towards global health security,” the Prime Minister said in his opening remarks at the 11th Asean Summit yesterday.
Meanwhile, it is understood that a draft joint declaration by Asean and East Asia Summit (EAS) leaders on avian flu seeks to co-operate in providing rapid, transparent, and accurate risk communication among the participating countries.
It also calls for improving national policies for the prevention and control of emerging infectious diseases and support to all participating nations.
Marina to quit as AIDS chief
Star: KUALA LUMPUR: After more than a decade at the helm of the Malaysian AIDS Council and being at the forefront of the crusade to promote safe sex and change public prejudices against HIV+ people, Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir is calling it a day.
Marina will step down as council president on Jan 1.
“I feel it is high time that I relinquish the post and all the obligations that come with it. But I am not leaving the AIDS field. It’s just that I will get to choose which areas to go into. For the past 12 years, I have been talking about every single aspect including science, politics, economics and women. Now I will concentrate on gender and Islam.”
Marina will also quit her post as chairman of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation, a position she took on in 1993, but will still be coordinating next year’s Red Ribbon Gala.
“It is time to refocus. And the little one is growing up so fast,” she said referring to her youngest daughter Shaista who begins Year One next year.
Eldest daughter Ineza, 18, plans to continue her studies in Melbourne, while son Haga, 17, is studying in Jakarta. Marina is married to professional photographer Tara Sosrowardoyo.
Asked if the work to stem the spread of HIV/AIDS in Malaysia would be affected by her stepping down, Marina said: “I will always, always be linked to it but the problem is too big to be associated with one individual. I want people to support the cause not because of me but because it is an important issue.”
She said that it took her a long while to realise that people do recognise her on the streets.
“I always thought that I have an ordinary face and I blend in with people.”
She related the story of how, when shopping with a friend in Singapore, a man from two aisles away shouted at her: “Aren’t you Marina Mahathir?”
“I just said no!” she said.
In the course of her work to promote safe sex, she had to put up with brickbats. For example, a person remarked that she should be shot because she advocated condom usage, and therefore “immorality”.
“Someone in a mosque said it after a ceramah on social ills. And what upset me more was that the person who related the incident mentioned it in front of my mother. And I do not like her getting upset,” said the daughter of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.
Apart from continuing her work in the HIV/AIDS field, which will also see her speak at Princeton University next year and being the liaison person for the International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP), Marina is helping her father with his memoirs, planning new directions for the award-winning TV3 women’s programme 3R as executive producer, and looking for movie scripts after Gol&Gincu in which she was co-executive producer.
Marina also operates her own public relations and publishing firm called Mosaique Communications, and writes the fortnightly Musings column in The Star.
“It has been an adventure working on AIDS issues, an enriching experience and I do not wish for life to be any different. It has changed me and made me a better person. It enabled me to see a side of life I would not have seen coming from a protected, middle-class family,” she said.
Her proudest moment, she said, was organising the 5th ICAAP here in 1999 because it had gone on so well and saw issues such as compulsory licensing and advocacy talked about besides changing public view and perception of HIV/ AIDS.
Marina said the most important change to take place in Malaysia was the decision to implement the harm reduction programme, which she describes as “landmark”.
“My greatest frustration is that 12 years later, there are still people talking about isolating people with HIV/AIDS or having mandatory testing as if that is the answer to the problem. And while the public is aware of AIDS, they still think it will not happen to them. And Malaysians do not want to take responsibility for themselves,” she added.
Marina will step down as council president on Jan 1.
“I feel it is high time that I relinquish the post and all the obligations that come with it. But I am not leaving the AIDS field. It’s just that I will get to choose which areas to go into. For the past 12 years, I have been talking about every single aspect including science, politics, economics and women. Now I will concentrate on gender and Islam.”
Marina will also quit her post as chairman of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation, a position she took on in 1993, but will still be coordinating next year’s Red Ribbon Gala.
“It is time to refocus. And the little one is growing up so fast,” she said referring to her youngest daughter Shaista who begins Year One next year.
Eldest daughter Ineza, 18, plans to continue her studies in Melbourne, while son Haga, 17, is studying in Jakarta. Marina is married to professional photographer Tara Sosrowardoyo.
Asked if the work to stem the spread of HIV/AIDS in Malaysia would be affected by her stepping down, Marina said: “I will always, always be linked to it but the problem is too big to be associated with one individual. I want people to support the cause not because of me but because it is an important issue.”
She said that it took her a long while to realise that people do recognise her on the streets.
“I always thought that I have an ordinary face and I blend in with people.”
She related the story of how, when shopping with a friend in Singapore, a man from two aisles away shouted at her: “Aren’t you Marina Mahathir?”
“I just said no!” she said.
In the course of her work to promote safe sex, she had to put up with brickbats. For example, a person remarked that she should be shot because she advocated condom usage, and therefore “immorality”.
“Someone in a mosque said it after a ceramah on social ills. And what upset me more was that the person who related the incident mentioned it in front of my mother. And I do not like her getting upset,” said the daughter of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.
Apart from continuing her work in the HIV/AIDS field, which will also see her speak at Princeton University next year and being the liaison person for the International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP), Marina is helping her father with his memoirs, planning new directions for the award-winning TV3 women’s programme 3R as executive producer, and looking for movie scripts after Gol&Gincu in which she was co-executive producer.
Marina also operates her own public relations and publishing firm called Mosaique Communications, and writes the fortnightly Musings column in The Star.
“It has been an adventure working on AIDS issues, an enriching experience and I do not wish for life to be any different. It has changed me and made me a better person. It enabled me to see a side of life I would not have seen coming from a protected, middle-class family,” she said.
Her proudest moment, she said, was organising the 5th ICAAP here in 1999 because it had gone on so well and saw issues such as compulsory licensing and advocacy talked about besides changing public view and perception of HIV/ AIDS.
Marina said the most important change to take place in Malaysia was the decision to implement the harm reduction programme, which she describes as “landmark”.
“My greatest frustration is that 12 years later, there are still people talking about isolating people with HIV/AIDS or having mandatory testing as if that is the answer to the problem. And while the public is aware of AIDS, they still think it will not happen to them. And Malaysians do not want to take responsibility for themselves,” she added.
Flu outbreak drill
NST: Is Malaysia prepared for a flu pandemic? The answer will be known when a simulation exercise involving almost the whole nation gets under way early next year.
The main players in the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan exercise will be the army, police, all ministries and government departments, the private sector and non-governmental organisations.
As part of its effort to ensure the country is able to tackle such a pandemic, the Health Ministry has trained 22,000 of its staff to provide treatment and care.
According to director-general of health Datuk Dr Ismail Merican, more staff are being trained to handle emergencies during a pandemic.
He said most state hospitals were equipped with negative-pressure isolation rooms and selected district hospitals would be fitted with them soon.
Dr Ismail said the Government had formed three committees to work out a plan and the logistics to ensure the country was fully prepared, namely:
• the inter-ministerial Committee chaired by Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek;
• the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan Committee chaired by Dr Ismail; and,
• a technical committee chaired by deputy director-general (public health) Datuk Dr Shafie Ooyub.
These committees will be co-ordinating all efforts to handle a pandemic.
The committees were established and the simulation exercise was planned in the wake of fears that the bird flu virus could mutate into a virus that could spread from human to human.
Dr Ismail said: "I have held talks with state health directors and state executive councillors to inform them of what we have done, plan to do and what we would like them to do."
Dr Ismail said the ministry had submitted a memorandum to the Cabinet seeking money to, among others, increase resources to train people, buy protective equipment, and stockpile anti-viral drugs.
He said Australia, which will hold a simulation exercise soon, would share its experience and offer feedback.
The main players in the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan exercise will be the army, police, all ministries and government departments, the private sector and non-governmental organisations.
As part of its effort to ensure the country is able to tackle such a pandemic, the Health Ministry has trained 22,000 of its staff to provide treatment and care.
According to director-general of health Datuk Dr Ismail Merican, more staff are being trained to handle emergencies during a pandemic.
He said most state hospitals were equipped with negative-pressure isolation rooms and selected district hospitals would be fitted with them soon.
Dr Ismail said the Government had formed three committees to work out a plan and the logistics to ensure the country was fully prepared, namely:
• the inter-ministerial Committee chaired by Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek;
• the National Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan Committee chaired by Dr Ismail; and,
• a technical committee chaired by deputy director-general (public health) Datuk Dr Shafie Ooyub.
These committees will be co-ordinating all efforts to handle a pandemic.
The committees were established and the simulation exercise was planned in the wake of fears that the bird flu virus could mutate into a virus that could spread from human to human.
Dr Ismail said: "I have held talks with state health directors and state executive councillors to inform them of what we have done, plan to do and what we would like them to do."
Dr Ismail said the ministry had submitted a memorandum to the Cabinet seeking money to, among others, increase resources to train people, buy protective equipment, and stockpile anti-viral drugs.
He said Australia, which will hold a simulation exercise soon, would share its experience and offer feedback.
Asean Mulls Stockpiling Medicines, Cooperation On Energy
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- Asean leaders are considering stockpiling medicines to be made available to member countries in fighting outbreak of diseases, says Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
He said Monday that the leaders also expressed interest in energy cooperation, including tapping the expertise of countries like Japan which were advanced in energy conservation and efficiency.
On the medicine stockpiling initiative, Abdullah said such a move was needed to ensure that Asean nations were always prepared to face the outbreak of diseases like avian influenza and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
"We are considering the possibility of setting up some kind of a stockpile of medicines that can be available to any country within our region that may be affected by any kind of diseases like the bird flu," he said.
He said this at a press conference held at the end of the 11th Asean Summit, which was attended by the regional leaders, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here.
"We never know when diseases will strike us but we have to be always in a state of preparedness," said Abdullah who chaired the summit.
He said the leaders also expressed their intention to cooperate closely in combating diseases, including by enhancing information exchange.
"We intend to meet and decide on the course of action whenever necessary, especially in tackling a disease like the bird flu," he added.
On energy cooperation, Abdullah said Asean countries were also looking at developing alternative energy, especially biofuel.
"We are rich in resources that can be converted into biofuel," he said.
Nevertheless, he added, developing countries would need a lot of capital investment and technology for this endeavour.
He said Monday that the leaders also expressed interest in energy cooperation, including tapping the expertise of countries like Japan which were advanced in energy conservation and efficiency.
On the medicine stockpiling initiative, Abdullah said such a move was needed to ensure that Asean nations were always prepared to face the outbreak of diseases like avian influenza and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).
"We are considering the possibility of setting up some kind of a stockpile of medicines that can be available to any country within our region that may be affected by any kind of diseases like the bird flu," he said.
He said this at a press conference held at the end of the 11th Asean Summit, which was attended by the regional leaders, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre here.
"We never know when diseases will strike us but we have to be always in a state of preparedness," said Abdullah who chaired the summit.
He said the leaders also expressed their intention to cooperate closely in combating diseases, including by enhancing information exchange.
"We intend to meet and decide on the course of action whenever necessary, especially in tackling a disease like the bird flu," he added.
On energy cooperation, Abdullah said Asean countries were also looking at developing alternative energy, especially biofuel.
"We are rich in resources that can be converted into biofuel," he said.
Nevertheless, he added, developing countries would need a lot of capital investment and technology for this endeavour.
Monday, December 12, 2005
Mara Takes Over Perak Royal Medical College
IPOH, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- Mara has taken over the Perak Royal Medical College since last year, State Education, Human Resource Development and Multimedia Committee Chairman Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said Monday.
He said the take-over involved Mara buying 75 per cent of the equity in P.C.M. Sdn Bhd, the company which managed the college.
Replying to a question from Mohamed Tarmizi Idris (BN-Kenering) in the state assembly, he said the take-over also involved the condition that the college be placed under Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL).
Zambry said the state government had recouped its investment in the college and still held 25 per cent equity in PCM Sdn Bhd.
The college has 591 students studying pharmacy and nursing.
He said the take-over involved Mara buying 75 per cent of the equity in P.C.M. Sdn Bhd, the company which managed the college.
Replying to a question from Mohamed Tarmizi Idris (BN-Kenering) in the state assembly, he said the take-over also involved the condition that the college be placed under Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL).
Zambry said the state government had recouped its investment in the college and still held 25 per cent equity in PCM Sdn Bhd.
The college has 591 students studying pharmacy and nursing.
NGOs: Details of scheme sketchy
NST: The National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme is to take off next year but, according to an alliance of 82 non-governmental organisations, hardly anyone is clear about how it will work and its potential impact on the insured.
Claiming that details from the Health Ministry have been sketchy, they said the NHI had caused much confusion.
Calling themselves the Coalition Against Health Care Privatisation Malaysia, more than 100 representatives of the 82 organisations gathered at a forum today to discuss the matter.
Coalition chairman Dr Subramaniam Pillay, a retired lecturer from Universiti Sains Malaysia, said: "We have met Health Ministry officials and even written to Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican asking for details, but they say they cannot provide answers until their consultant briefs them."
When the NHI takes effect next year, most Malaysians will have to make mandatory contributions for healthcare. Those exempted will include the one million civil servants, about 200,000 disabled, 1.8 million elderly citizens, 435,000 pensioners, and 250,000 hardcore poor.
The Health Ministry is also in the midst of identifying groups in the private sector exempted from payment.
In May, the Health Ministry’s planning and development division evaluation and plan formulation unit head, Dr Rohaizat Yon, said a consultant had been appointed to identify scheme details such as the quantum of payment, the criteria for contributions, the collection mechanism, the nature of basic health packages, and how the ministry would pay clinics and hospitals.
Former Health Ministry director-general Tan Sri Dr Abdul Khalid Sahan delivered the keynote address at the forum entitled, "Health Financing Reform: Should We Be Concerned?" at Universiti Malaya.
Among the issues raised at the forum were how the money would be used, the rights of individuals to be treated regardless of whether or not they had deposits, and whether the NHI would be redundant given the availability of private healthcare insurance.
"Would the money be managed in an accountable manner? That is our concern," Subramaniam said.
He asked why employers were exempted from paying for their employees when government servants had the privilege of not contributing to the scheme.
Women Development Collective executive director Maria Chin Abdullah said the Government should clearly explain the framework of the scheme to the public.
Malaysian Trades Union Congress president Syed Shahir Syed Mohamud said the public had a right to know exactly how the system worked and how much to pay.
Claiming that details from the Health Ministry have been sketchy, they said the NHI had caused much confusion.
Calling themselves the Coalition Against Health Care Privatisation Malaysia, more than 100 representatives of the 82 organisations gathered at a forum today to discuss the matter.
Coalition chairman Dr Subramaniam Pillay, a retired lecturer from Universiti Sains Malaysia, said: "We have met Health Ministry officials and even written to Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican asking for details, but they say they cannot provide answers until their consultant briefs them."
When the NHI takes effect next year, most Malaysians will have to make mandatory contributions for healthcare. Those exempted will include the one million civil servants, about 200,000 disabled, 1.8 million elderly citizens, 435,000 pensioners, and 250,000 hardcore poor.
The Health Ministry is also in the midst of identifying groups in the private sector exempted from payment.
In May, the Health Ministry’s planning and development division evaluation and plan formulation unit head, Dr Rohaizat Yon, said a consultant had been appointed to identify scheme details such as the quantum of payment, the criteria for contributions, the collection mechanism, the nature of basic health packages, and how the ministry would pay clinics and hospitals.
Former Health Ministry director-general Tan Sri Dr Abdul Khalid Sahan delivered the keynote address at the forum entitled, "Health Financing Reform: Should We Be Concerned?" at Universiti Malaya.
Among the issues raised at the forum were how the money would be used, the rights of individuals to be treated regardless of whether or not they had deposits, and whether the NHI would be redundant given the availability of private healthcare insurance.
"Would the money be managed in an accountable manner? That is our concern," Subramaniam said.
He asked why employers were exempted from paying for their employees when government servants had the privilege of not contributing to the scheme.
Women Development Collective executive director Maria Chin Abdullah said the Government should clearly explain the framework of the scheme to the public.
Malaysian Trades Union Congress president Syed Shahir Syed Mohamud said the public had a right to know exactly how the system worked and how much to pay.
Biotech courses most popular
NST: Biotechnology and biomedicine are the most popular courses after medicine among Malaysians seeking to study in the National University of Singapore.
Business and engineering courses were also among their top choices, said NUS admissions officer Juliet Ho at the Facon Education Fair today.
That accorded with the experience of other universities’ recruitment officers and the fair’s organisers.
School-leavers at the fair were applying for degrees in medicine, biotechnology and biomedical sciences, said Stephanie Hah, senior marketing manager of Monash University.
Pharmacy was a course that many school-leavers were considering, said Deva Guru, marketing and recruitment officer of University Nottingham campus in Malaysia.
"All serious enquiries were for courses such as pharmacy, engineering, business and computer science," he said.
Wong Yoke Lin, executive director of Facon Exhibitions Sdn Bhd, said most SPM and STPM school-leavers were going for medicine, engineering and biotechnology courses.
"We also received positive feedback from the participants of the careers in human resource development seminars.
"We had at least 20 to 30 students per session," she said.
The two-day fair concluded today, attracting at least 41,000 students.
Wong said at least 16,000 students attended the fair yesterday and about 25,000 today.
Business and engineering courses were also among their top choices, said NUS admissions officer Juliet Ho at the Facon Education Fair today.
That accorded with the experience of other universities’ recruitment officers and the fair’s organisers.
School-leavers at the fair were applying for degrees in medicine, biotechnology and biomedical sciences, said Stephanie Hah, senior marketing manager of Monash University.
Pharmacy was a course that many school-leavers were considering, said Deva Guru, marketing and recruitment officer of University Nottingham campus in Malaysia.
"All serious enquiries were for courses such as pharmacy, engineering, business and computer science," he said.
Wong Yoke Lin, executive director of Facon Exhibitions Sdn Bhd, said most SPM and STPM school-leavers were going for medicine, engineering and biotechnology courses.
"We also received positive feedback from the participants of the careers in human resource development seminars.
"We had at least 20 to 30 students per session," she said.
The two-day fair concluded today, attracting at least 41,000 students.
Wong said at least 16,000 students attended the fair yesterday and about 25,000 today.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Medical campus: Team in Ireland
NST: A Malaysian fact-finding team is in Ireland to explore the viability of an Irish medical campus here.
It will also study options for Malaysian doctors to do their postgraduate courses and training in Ireland.
Members will also gather information on why many Malaysian scholars preferred to stay behind and not return to serve the nation.
The nine-member team, headed by Universiti Malaya Faculty of Medicine dean Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Amin Jalaludin, left on Sunday.
Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Fu Ah Kiow said the Irish had expressed an interest in setting up a medical campus besides doing research here.
"The team has gone to explore the opportunities and gather information from the universities concerned."
On Malaysians doing postgraduate courses in Ireland, he said the team would look at what some of the medical institutions there were offering.
The NST highlighted on Nov 6 that as many as 100 Malaysians trained in Ireland as doctors at a cost of between RM60 million and RM100 million had turned their backs on the country.
It will also study options for Malaysian doctors to do their postgraduate courses and training in Ireland.
Members will also gather information on why many Malaysian scholars preferred to stay behind and not return to serve the nation.
The nine-member team, headed by Universiti Malaya Faculty of Medicine dean Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Amin Jalaludin, left on Sunday.
Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Fu Ah Kiow said the Irish had expressed an interest in setting up a medical campus besides doing research here.
"The team has gone to explore the opportunities and gather information from the universities concerned."
On Malaysians doing postgraduate courses in Ireland, he said the team would look at what some of the medical institutions there were offering.
The NST highlighted on Nov 6 that as many as 100 Malaysians trained in Ireland as doctors at a cost of between RM60 million and RM100 million had turned their backs on the country.
Saturday, December 10, 2005
KPJ To Acquire One More Healthcare Centre
PUTRAJAYA, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- KPJ Healthcare Bhd, the private healthcare group in Malaysia is finalising the acquisition of another healthcare centre in the country, its chairman, Tan Sri Muhammad Ali Hashim said.
He said KPJ aimed to complete the acquisition by early next year.
"The healthcare centre, which is currently operating in a profitable position will be the 15th hospital for KPJ network of hospitals in the country," he told a media briefing Friday.
KPJ already has in operation 14 hospitals in Malaysia, two in Indonesia, as well as one hospital in construction in Bangladesh and another hospital also under construction in Indonesia.
Muhammad said KPJ was also planning to list KPJ Healthcare real estate investment trusts (REITs) by early next year.
"The KPJ Healthcare REITs, which are Islamic REITs will enable us to raise RM340 million by unlocking the value of our assets," he said.
"We intend to maintain 40 percent of the shareholding of REITs.
"We may consider diluting our shareholding at a later data," he added.
He said KPJ aimed to complete the acquisition by early next year.
"The healthcare centre, which is currently operating in a profitable position will be the 15th hospital for KPJ network of hospitals in the country," he told a media briefing Friday.
KPJ already has in operation 14 hospitals in Malaysia, two in Indonesia, as well as one hospital in construction in Bangladesh and another hospital also under construction in Indonesia.
Muhammad said KPJ was also planning to list KPJ Healthcare real estate investment trusts (REITs) by early next year.
"The KPJ Healthcare REITs, which are Islamic REITs will enable us to raise RM340 million by unlocking the value of our assets," he said.
"We intend to maintain 40 percent of the shareholding of REITs.
"We may consider diluting our shareholding at a later data," he added.
Friday, December 09, 2005
Local councils say guidelines followed
NST: Local councils today defended themselves against a Health Ministry allegation that their foggers were to blame for the rise in dengue cases and deaths.
Ampang Jaya Municipal Council spokesman Norhayati Ahmad said they had deployed four contractors to carry out fogging around their municipality and the foggers were under constant monitoring.
"Our health department is always checking on fogging activities and there is always someone from the department who follows them and takes reports," she said.
"The Health Ministry would probably be talking about the contractors who charge to carry out fogging. These people are usually not monitored," she added.
Subang Jaya Municipal Council public relations deputy director Azfarizal Abd Rashid said the council only hired private companies for fogging during dengue outbreaks.
"We usually have our health department staff on duty during an outbreak. Only when it is uncontrollable, like what has happened in the last few months, that we hire extra help.
"They (foggers), however, know that fogging will not be carried out without the presence of a monitoring officer," said Azfarizal.
"Our department’s staff are specialists in their field and they have no excuse to dilute or mix the chemicals wrongly or carry out fogging at unscheduled hours."
The New Straits Times reported yesterday that the ministry had found that contractors paid to carry out fogging nationwide had not done their job properly.
It was learnt that the contractors may have diluted the malathion/diesel mixture to the extent that aedes mosquitoes grew resistant to it.
The Petaling Jaya Municipal Council also claimed to follow the same guidelines.
"Thermal fogging that involves mixing of malathion and diesel is done by our health department staff who are trained to handle the work," said its health department director, Dr Sadiah Abdullah.
Until early last month, statistics showed a high incidence of dengue cases.
To date, 98 people have died of dengue fever and 10,036 have contracted the fever.
Ampang Jaya Municipal Council spokesman Norhayati Ahmad said they had deployed four contractors to carry out fogging around their municipality and the foggers were under constant monitoring.
"Our health department is always checking on fogging activities and there is always someone from the department who follows them and takes reports," she said.
"The Health Ministry would probably be talking about the contractors who charge to carry out fogging. These people are usually not monitored," she added.
Subang Jaya Municipal Council public relations deputy director Azfarizal Abd Rashid said the council only hired private companies for fogging during dengue outbreaks.
"We usually have our health department staff on duty during an outbreak. Only when it is uncontrollable, like what has happened in the last few months, that we hire extra help.
"They (foggers), however, know that fogging will not be carried out without the presence of a monitoring officer," said Azfarizal.
"Our department’s staff are specialists in their field and they have no excuse to dilute or mix the chemicals wrongly or carry out fogging at unscheduled hours."
The New Straits Times reported yesterday that the ministry had found that contractors paid to carry out fogging nationwide had not done their job properly.
It was learnt that the contractors may have diluted the malathion/diesel mixture to the extent that aedes mosquitoes grew resistant to it.
The Petaling Jaya Municipal Council also claimed to follow the same guidelines.
"Thermal fogging that involves mixing of malathion and diesel is done by our health department staff who are trained to handle the work," said its health department director, Dr Sadiah Abdullah.
Until early last month, statistics showed a high incidence of dengue cases.
To date, 98 people have died of dengue fever and 10,036 have contracted the fever.
Love, not shun, AIDS patients
Star: KUCHING: The public has been reminded not to shun HIV/AIDS patients as this may result in their transmitting the disease silently to others.
Red Crescent Society Sarawak nursing superintendent Matron Fu Choon Kee said these people needed to be helped with love and care.
“Counselling will help them to think positively in dealing with the disease,” she said yesterday after the launch of a campaign to commemorate World AIDS Day at the City South Council building here.
Fu, whose voluntary counselling work with HIV/AIDS patients won her the Dr Siti Hasmah Award 2004, said public awareness on HIV/AIDS was still low in the state.
“We have carried out surveys in towns and there are people who ask if Sarawak has AIDS cases,” she said.
Statistics show that of the 554 HIV-positive cases reported to the state Health Department as of Oct 31, 250 developed AIDS and 115 died.
The number of new cases detected among young Sarawakians is on the rise and over 60% of them were infected through heterosexual activities.
Mayor Chan Seng Khai launched the month-long campaign organised by the Red Crescent Stampin Chapter with the theme “Wise up. Wear it. Where is yours?”
The campaign aimed at getting more people to wear red ribbons and spreading knowledge about HIV/AIDS, how to prevent infection and transmission and ways to help patients.
Red Crescent Society Sarawak nursing superintendent Matron Fu Choon Kee said these people needed to be helped with love and care.
“Counselling will help them to think positively in dealing with the disease,” she said yesterday after the launch of a campaign to commemorate World AIDS Day at the City South Council building here.
Fu, whose voluntary counselling work with HIV/AIDS patients won her the Dr Siti Hasmah Award 2004, said public awareness on HIV/AIDS was still low in the state.
“We have carried out surveys in towns and there are people who ask if Sarawak has AIDS cases,” she said.
Statistics show that of the 554 HIV-positive cases reported to the state Health Department as of Oct 31, 250 developed AIDS and 115 died.
The number of new cases detected among young Sarawakians is on the rise and over 60% of them were infected through heterosexual activities.
Mayor Chan Seng Khai launched the month-long campaign organised by the Red Crescent Stampin Chapter with the theme “Wise up. Wear it. Where is yours?”
The campaign aimed at getting more people to wear red ribbons and spreading knowledge about HIV/AIDS, how to prevent infection and transmission and ways to help patients.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Housewife latest dengue victim
NST: A housewife is believed to be the eighth person in the State to have succumbed to dengue fever.
R. Susila, 31, from Taman Bukit Emas, Senawang, died at the Seremban Hospital on Monday about 10.30pm.
The mother of two children, aged three and one, was admitted to the hospital three days earlier with high fever.
Her husband, I. Tachinamurthi, 34, said his wife had complained of a fever the week before.
"She went to a private clinic and was given medication but her condition worsened two days later. She returned to the clinic on Saturday and a blood test confirmed that she had dengue fever."
R. Susila, 31, from Taman Bukit Emas, Senawang, died at the Seremban Hospital on Monday about 10.30pm.
The mother of two children, aged three and one, was admitted to the hospital three days earlier with high fever.
Her husband, I. Tachinamurthi, 34, said his wife had complained of a fever the week before.
"She went to a private clinic and was given medication but her condition worsened two days later. She returned to the clinic on Saturday and a blood test confirmed that she had dengue fever."
Do not turn away patients
NST: Private hospitals and clinics cannot turn away patients. Director-General of Health Datuk Dr Ismail Merican, who gave this warning today, said, "The Ministry of Health is not powerless. There are some things we can do..."
He was commenting on a recent incident where a 17-year-old boy Khairul Anuar was allegedly denied emergency treatment by a private hospital because the family could not put up a RM5,000 deposit. The boy died.
Dr Ismail said the ministry had acted on the complaint and appropriate action will be taken once investigations were completed.
He reminded those providing healthcare services that they had a social responsibility to the public who needed help.
"Nobody should be denied of any form of healthcare simply because they cannot afford it. There must be some flexibility in payment, especially those seeking emergency treatment."
He said it was equally important that all doctors, nurses and medical assistants at emergency departments in private hospitals were trained to deal with all emergencies.
"Nothing is worse than going to the emergency facility and the doctor says he has lost touch with a certain procedure.
"If that is the case, he should have kept in touch by attending the courses organised by the ministry annually," he added.
He was commenting on a recent incident where a 17-year-old boy Khairul Anuar was allegedly denied emergency treatment by a private hospital because the family could not put up a RM5,000 deposit. The boy died.
Dr Ismail said the ministry had acted on the complaint and appropriate action will be taken once investigations were completed.
He reminded those providing healthcare services that they had a social responsibility to the public who needed help.
"Nobody should be denied of any form of healthcare simply because they cannot afford it. There must be some flexibility in payment, especially those seeking emergency treatment."
He said it was equally important that all doctors, nurses and medical assistants at emergency departments in private hospitals were trained to deal with all emergencies.
"Nothing is worse than going to the emergency facility and the doctor says he has lost touch with a certain procedure.
"If that is the case, he should have kept in touch by attending the courses organised by the ministry annually," he added.
Men don’t trust women drivers
NST: Most men do not trust their wives’ driving. And the reason: Women are too cautious and many drive slowly, holding up traffic. Some are impatient with male drivers.
Psychologist Dr Sher Alwi said at a seminar on Driving and Vehicle Safety of Women that women drivers tended to be more cautious while men liked to speed.
"Men feel superior behind the wheel. They feel women do not have adequate driving skills," he said.
"Men also feel they have more experience. They have been driving before World War Two while women started driving in the late 70s."
Dr Sher said such thinking was also due to the traditional role men played as the protector and head of the family.
"It is a natural instinct. They feel it is their duty to protect their family and feel uncomfortable if their wives take over the wheel."
He said it was difficult to change the perception unless women took an interest in learning to maintain the car.
"For example, women still tend to depend on their partners to fix a flat tyre or repair the car."
Crime analyst Kamal Affendi Hashim said some of the road rage cases against women were due to impatience.
"Sometimes women take a long time to exit from their parking lot. A male driver waiting for the bay gets impatient, especially if she is putting on lipstick or combing her hair."
He advised women not to put up car stickers which might indicate their marital status.
"Those who put bears or Garfield stickers on their cars are single while mothers usually put on ‘Child on Board’ signs."
He said rapists and snatch thieves might pick their victims using these indicators.
Psychologist Dr Sher Alwi said at a seminar on Driving and Vehicle Safety of Women that women drivers tended to be more cautious while men liked to speed.
"Men feel superior behind the wheel. They feel women do not have adequate driving skills," he said.
"Men also feel they have more experience. They have been driving before World War Two while women started driving in the late 70s."
Dr Sher said such thinking was also due to the traditional role men played as the protector and head of the family.
"It is a natural instinct. They feel it is their duty to protect their family and feel uncomfortable if their wives take over the wheel."
He said it was difficult to change the perception unless women took an interest in learning to maintain the car.
"For example, women still tend to depend on their partners to fix a flat tyre or repair the car."
Crime analyst Kamal Affendi Hashim said some of the road rage cases against women were due to impatience.
"Sometimes women take a long time to exit from their parking lot. A male driver waiting for the bay gets impatient, especially if she is putting on lipstick or combing her hair."
He advised women not to put up car stickers which might indicate their marital status.
"Those who put bears or Garfield stickers on their cars are single while mothers usually put on ‘Child on Board’ signs."
He said rapists and snatch thieves might pick their victims using these indicators.
Crucial to detect dengue in time
Star: PUTRAJAYA: Hospitals with a high number of dengue cases must set up dengue management teams to detect cases early and prevent deaths.
Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said previous teams set up at the Kuala Lumpur and Klang hospitals proved effective in checking dengue cases early, which helped prevent deaths.
The team comprised specialist doctors, trained nurses and laboratory assistants.
Dr Ismail said suspected dengue patients would be placed in special wards and treated separately.
“The doctors and nurses are trained and will know the early warning signals and what to expect.
“They can monitor laboratory tests to find out which patients are going to land in trouble,” he said after chairing a meeting with state health directors and child specialists at the ministry here yesterday.
States that have been recording dengue cases, he said, are Selangor, the Federal Territory, Penang, Pahang and Johor.
Dr Ismail said this year, there were 10,036 dengue cases with 98 deaths until Nov 19, and the number of cases was declining.
“The deaths were mainly due to patients coming in late,” he said.
Although the number of dengue cases has declined, Dr Ismail said, the ministry was still not satisfied with the level of cleanliness.
Local authorities, he added, should ensure fogging was carried out in housing areas according to the standards set by the ministry.
“If some houses are not fogged due to the absence of the residents, the authorities must go back to these houses later to ensure the work is completed,” he said.
Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican said previous teams set up at the Kuala Lumpur and Klang hospitals proved effective in checking dengue cases early, which helped prevent deaths.
The team comprised specialist doctors, trained nurses and laboratory assistants.
Dr Ismail said suspected dengue patients would be placed in special wards and treated separately.
“The doctors and nurses are trained and will know the early warning signals and what to expect.
“They can monitor laboratory tests to find out which patients are going to land in trouble,” he said after chairing a meeting with state health directors and child specialists at the ministry here yesterday.
States that have been recording dengue cases, he said, are Selangor, the Federal Territory, Penang, Pahang and Johor.
Dr Ismail said this year, there were 10,036 dengue cases with 98 deaths until Nov 19, and the number of cases was declining.
“The deaths were mainly due to patients coming in late,” he said.
Although the number of dengue cases has declined, Dr Ismail said, the ministry was still not satisfied with the level of cleanliness.
Local authorities, he added, should ensure fogging was carried out in housing areas according to the standards set by the ministry.
“If some houses are not fogged due to the absence of the residents, the authorities must go back to these houses later to ensure the work is completed,” he said.
Unfit Vehicles Contribute To Increase In Number Of Accidents
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 7 (Bernama) -- Cars that don't comply with safety regulations are the biggest contributors to the rise in road accident rates.
Puspakom's Chief Executive Officer Salamat Wahit said ever since some financial institutions set a prerequisite that private vehicles can only be financed after being inspected by Puspakom, many vehicles were found to have compromised the safety aspects.
"This problem is at a worrisome level. In the first 10 months of the year, Puspakom identified almost 3,000 from 300,000 private vehicles with problems like vehicles that had been cut and joined back, and engine and chassis numbers tampered with," he told reporters after the Driving and Vehicle Safety for Women Seminar officiated by Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk G. Palanivel, here.
"Based on Puspakom's experience in inspecting commercial vehicles, the accident rate involving heavy vehicles went down by 19 percent when the safety elements in the vehicles were given emphasis," he said.
Salamat also pointed out that there are now almost five million registered private vehicles that has not gone through Puspakom's inspection.
Puspakom's Chief Executive Officer Salamat Wahit said ever since some financial institutions set a prerequisite that private vehicles can only be financed after being inspected by Puspakom, many vehicles were found to have compromised the safety aspects.
"This problem is at a worrisome level. In the first 10 months of the year, Puspakom identified almost 3,000 from 300,000 private vehicles with problems like vehicles that had been cut and joined back, and engine and chassis numbers tampered with," he told reporters after the Driving and Vehicle Safety for Women Seminar officiated by Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Datuk G. Palanivel, here.
"Based on Puspakom's experience in inspecting commercial vehicles, the accident rate involving heavy vehicles went down by 19 percent when the safety elements in the vehicles were given emphasis," he said.
Salamat also pointed out that there are now almost five million registered private vehicles that has not gone through Puspakom's inspection.
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Once-popular mobile clinics to make comeback
Star: KANGAR: Mobile clinics, popular among rural folk in the past, are set to make a comeback.
“There had been requests for more rural, district, health and midwife clinics under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, but the Cabinet has decided to re-introduce mobile clinics,” said Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek.
“Mobile clinics are essential in areas that are hard to reach and do not have proper public transport, such as interior areas in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.
There are similar remote areas in Perlis, Kelantan, Pahang, Terengganu and even Selangor, he told a press conference after visiting a health clinic in Kuala Perlis, near here, yesterday.
Dr Chua said the number of mobile clinics would depend on the Government’s budget, adding that the ministry hoped to re-introduce the clinics next year.
The clinics, he said, would be equipped with a pharmacy and facilities for medical tests.
Dr Chua said the mobile clinics were favoured by rural folks in the past but their popularity waned as a result of the rising number of district, rural and midwife clinics.
On another matter, Dr Chua said doctors who accepted rural postings would be given priority to continue their post-graduate studies.
“There are many staff who refuse to be posted to rural areas,” he said.
“There had been requests for more rural, district, health and midwife clinics under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, but the Cabinet has decided to re-introduce mobile clinics,” said Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek.
“Mobile clinics are essential in areas that are hard to reach and do not have proper public transport, such as interior areas in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.
There are similar remote areas in Perlis, Kelantan, Pahang, Terengganu and even Selangor, he told a press conference after visiting a health clinic in Kuala Perlis, near here, yesterday.
Dr Chua said the number of mobile clinics would depend on the Government’s budget, adding that the ministry hoped to re-introduce the clinics next year.
The clinics, he said, would be equipped with a pharmacy and facilities for medical tests.
Dr Chua said the mobile clinics were favoured by rural folks in the past but their popularity waned as a result of the rising number of district, rural and midwife clinics.
On another matter, Dr Chua said doctors who accepted rural postings would be given priority to continue their post-graduate studies.
“There are many staff who refuse to be posted to rural areas,” he said.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Bintangor tree may yield treatment for HIV
NST: To the Ibans, it is known as the Chenaga. To the Bidayuhs, the Bituah or Entuah, the Kayans Mata-oh and the Berawans Churau.
To other Malaysians, it is simply the Bintangor tree (Barringtonia Asiatica) — and it may be the "Tree of Life".
According to tests carried out in the United States by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Bintangor tree — which grows in the swampy areas of Sarawak — may yield a treatment for HIV sufferers.
Clinical trials done in 1991 show that a drug called Calanolide A, extracted from the tree’s latex, reduces the levels of the AIDS virus in the blood.
Further tests showed the tree to yield another compound, Costatolide, which also exhibits positive reaction against HIV.
It started in 1986 when the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University in Massachusetts sought the permission of the Sarawak Government to collaborate with the Sarawak Research Division of the Forest Department on collection of Sarawak plants for phytochemical analyses to find new drugs for cancer and AIDS.
Permission was given in May the next year and collection of specimen started at the end of 1987.
Tests on samples of Bintangor tree gathered in the peat swamp forest near Batang Kayan, about 5km from the coastal town of Lundu, "exhibited positive activity against HIV".
The Bintangor tree to the layman may look like the rubber tree. It can grow to a height of about 30 feet, with a diameter of five inches and long waxy leaves.
The Ibans have for centuries known its medicinal properties.
The poultice made from the bark is used to ease headaches, treat skin rashes, rheumatism, diarrhoea and childbirth after care, while the poisonous latex that oozes from it can be used for stunning fish.
Little do they realise what vast potential riches the tree contains.
On June 21, 1994, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Sarawak State Government and the NCI to collaborate in the search for AIDS cure.
The MoU provides for the payments of royalties in the event of a drug being synthesised from the compound developed from the natural products.
The anti-HIV drug is several years away from being sold commercially, but if it is — and if it is as profitable as other anti-HIV drugs — it could earn as much as RM1.7 billion a year.
With such a potential, it is, therefore, no wonder that the Bintangor tree is now a protected species under the The Calophyllum Species (Prohibition of Felling and Restriction of Export) Order of the Sarawak Forest Ordinance.
To other Malaysians, it is simply the Bintangor tree (Barringtonia Asiatica) — and it may be the "Tree of Life".
According to tests carried out in the United States by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Bintangor tree — which grows in the swampy areas of Sarawak — may yield a treatment for HIV sufferers.
Clinical trials done in 1991 show that a drug called Calanolide A, extracted from the tree’s latex, reduces the levels of the AIDS virus in the blood.
Further tests showed the tree to yield another compound, Costatolide, which also exhibits positive reaction against HIV.
It started in 1986 when the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University in Massachusetts sought the permission of the Sarawak Government to collaborate with the Sarawak Research Division of the Forest Department on collection of Sarawak plants for phytochemical analyses to find new drugs for cancer and AIDS.
Permission was given in May the next year and collection of specimen started at the end of 1987.
Tests on samples of Bintangor tree gathered in the peat swamp forest near Batang Kayan, about 5km from the coastal town of Lundu, "exhibited positive activity against HIV".
The Bintangor tree to the layman may look like the rubber tree. It can grow to a height of about 30 feet, with a diameter of five inches and long waxy leaves.
The Ibans have for centuries known its medicinal properties.
The poultice made from the bark is used to ease headaches, treat skin rashes, rheumatism, diarrhoea and childbirth after care, while the poisonous latex that oozes from it can be used for stunning fish.
Little do they realise what vast potential riches the tree contains.
On June 21, 1994, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Sarawak State Government and the NCI to collaborate in the search for AIDS cure.
The MoU provides for the payments of royalties in the event of a drug being synthesised from the compound developed from the natural products.
The anti-HIV drug is several years away from being sold commercially, but if it is — and if it is as profitable as other anti-HIV drugs — it could earn as much as RM1.7 billion a year.
With such a potential, it is, therefore, no wonder that the Bintangor tree is now a protected species under the The Calophyllum Species (Prohibition of Felling and Restriction of Export) Order of the Sarawak Forest Ordinance.
Red tape delays return of specialists
Star: Malaysian medical specialists and researchers working abroad have been slow in responding to the call for them to return home to work.
Health Ministry parliamentary secretary Lee Kah Choon said many of them were willing to return but were put off by the slow process of getting travel documents for their spouses.
Lee said the ministry had been encouraging Malaysians to return to the country, adding that the Government was also giving incentives to woo the professionals.
He said these included income tax exemption and two approved permits for them to bring back two cars from overseas.
Health Ministry parliamentary secretary Lee Kah Choon said many of them were willing to return but were put off by the slow process of getting travel documents for their spouses.
Lee said the ministry had been encouraging Malaysians to return to the country, adding that the Government was also giving incentives to woo the professionals.
He said these included income tax exemption and two approved permits for them to bring back two cars from overseas.
Monday, December 05, 2005
Nasom needs more teachers, volunteers
Malay Mail: THE National Autism Society of Malaysia (Nasom) is currently looking for more teachers and volunteers who are committed to helping children with autism.
Its executive director, Teoh Ah Nya Liew, said that Nasom’s primary aim is to provide education, vocational training and support services for people with autism.
Currently, Nasom has 14 schools in Peninsular Malaysia, handling some 350 children. The Society was established in 1986 to provide services to children with autism.
Its other top priorities at the moment include setting up a toy library to increase roleplay and pretend play amongst the children with autism.
“Some of our children are growing up, and we also need a group home for activities to help these children who have various degrees of autism,” said Teoh.
“We are also looking for sponsorship of a bakery section as well as a printing and publishing section for the children to learn marketable vocational skills which will better the opportunities of job placements in future.”
Every effort is being made to ensure that the children grow up eventually with skills that will land them jobs, rather than remaining dependent on charity.
This is therefore an opportunity for caring corporate citizens to plan to include in their budget next year to train people with autism to be potential employees who will work for them in the future.
Every month, Nasom’s expenditure can go up to as high as RM180,000, where the money is used to cover Intensive Early Intervention Programme (one-to-one teacher-pupil ratio teaching for children from ages two to five), Early Intervention Programme (1:3 teacher-pupil ratio teaching for children aged five and above), Elementary class (ages seven to 12) and Vocational training for young adults aged 14 and above.
“The expenditure also includes salaries for a total of 101 teachers in all 14 schools, rental of the schools, overhead costs, upgrading of facilities, administrative costs and training of new teachers,” Teoh added. “We need help.”
For more information, call Teoh or Mariyam Mohd Yasin (executive secretary) of Nasom at No. 4, Jalan Chan Chin Mooi, off Jalan Pahang, 53200 Kuala Lumpur.
The telephone number is (03) 4022-3744/4023-6698, and the e-mail is nasom@streamyx.com
Its executive director, Teoh Ah Nya Liew, said that Nasom’s primary aim is to provide education, vocational training and support services for people with autism.
Currently, Nasom has 14 schools in Peninsular Malaysia, handling some 350 children. The Society was established in 1986 to provide services to children with autism.
Its other top priorities at the moment include setting up a toy library to increase roleplay and pretend play amongst the children with autism.
“Some of our children are growing up, and we also need a group home for activities to help these children who have various degrees of autism,” said Teoh.
“We are also looking for sponsorship of a bakery section as well as a printing and publishing section for the children to learn marketable vocational skills which will better the opportunities of job placements in future.”
Every effort is being made to ensure that the children grow up eventually with skills that will land them jobs, rather than remaining dependent on charity.
This is therefore an opportunity for caring corporate citizens to plan to include in their budget next year to train people with autism to be potential employees who will work for them in the future.
Every month, Nasom’s expenditure can go up to as high as RM180,000, where the money is used to cover Intensive Early Intervention Programme (one-to-one teacher-pupil ratio teaching for children from ages two to five), Early Intervention Programme (1:3 teacher-pupil ratio teaching for children aged five and above), Elementary class (ages seven to 12) and Vocational training for young adults aged 14 and above.
“The expenditure also includes salaries for a total of 101 teachers in all 14 schools, rental of the schools, overhead costs, upgrading of facilities, administrative costs and training of new teachers,” Teoh added. “We need help.”
For more information, call Teoh or Mariyam Mohd Yasin (executive secretary) of Nasom at No. 4, Jalan Chan Chin Mooi, off Jalan Pahang, 53200 Kuala Lumpur.
The telephone number is (03) 4022-3744/4023-6698, and the e-mail is nasom@streamyx.com
Volunteers Vital In Helping Govt Implement Social Development Programmes
KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- Volunteers can play an important role in assisting the government to implement its social development programmes, Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk G. Palanivel said.
A voluntary social support system could be an important link between the community and the government so that the government's social development programmes could have an extensive outreach, he said.
The private sector should also play its role in encouraging volunteerism among employees while the media should highlight the role of local volunteers and voluntary groups, he said at an appreciation dinner for volunteers organised by Yayasan Strategik Sosial (YSS) here Saturday night.
He told the 350 volunteers present that without their assistance, his ministry would not have been able to reach out do to so many people.
The ministry was happy with the work done by YSS in carrying out social intervention programmes in high risk areas throughout the country with government funding, he said.
A voluntary social support system could be an important link between the community and the government so that the government's social development programmes could have an extensive outreach, he said.
The private sector should also play its role in encouraging volunteerism among employees while the media should highlight the role of local volunteers and voluntary groups, he said at an appreciation dinner for volunteers organised by Yayasan Strategik Sosial (YSS) here Saturday night.
He told the 350 volunteers present that without their assistance, his ministry would not have been able to reach out do to so many people.
The ministry was happy with the work done by YSS in carrying out social intervention programmes in high risk areas throughout the country with government funding, he said.
Sunday, December 04, 2005
Austrian University Will Manage Petronas Hospital
PENANG, Dec 2 (Bernama) -- Austrian university, Medical University of Vienna, has been chosen to manage a luxurious hospital to be built by Petronas in Kuala Lumpur, Austrian Ambassador to Malaysia Dr Donatus Koeck said here Friday.
He said that the hospital will be equipped with high technology health care facilities and equipment by an Austrian company, VAMED Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd, which has been present here for the past few decades.
"Malaysia has a wonderful climate and the climate is suitable for the rehabilitation centre. It could help Malaysia to attract more overseas patients and develop its health tourism, one of the competitive sectors in European countries," he said.
Speaking to reporters after visiting Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon at his office here Friday, Dr Koeck said that VAMED, which was based in Kuala Lumpur to provide its services to Asean region, had also equipped Sungai Buluh Hospital and Sarawak International Medical Centre with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
He said that Penang has a medical sector which could be explored by Austrian medical companies.
He said that the hospital will be equipped with high technology health care facilities and equipment by an Austrian company, VAMED Engineering (M) Sdn Bhd, which has been present here for the past few decades.
"Malaysia has a wonderful climate and the climate is suitable for the rehabilitation centre. It could help Malaysia to attract more overseas patients and develop its health tourism, one of the competitive sectors in European countries," he said.
Speaking to reporters after visiting Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon at his office here Friday, Dr Koeck said that VAMED, which was based in Kuala Lumpur to provide its services to Asean region, had also equipped Sungai Buluh Hospital and Sarawak International Medical Centre with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
He said that Penang has a medical sector which could be explored by Austrian medical companies.
Emergency cases must be attended to: APHM
MalayMail:The Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia (APHM) has described as “unacceptable’’ for any hospital not to provide treatment to those in a life-threatening situation.
Concerned over recent allegations that some private hospitals had refused to render emergency treatment to patients who were unable to pay a deposit first, the APHM said these establishments should not forget that their primary duty was to provide healthcare.
“If you are in the healthcare business, the interest of the patient must be given priority over everything. This is not to say that their business concerns should be overlooked but due care must be given in a life-threatening situation. It is simply unacceptable not to provide treatment in such a situation. To delay treatment would be inhuman,’’ said APHM president Tan Sr Dr Abu Bakar Suleiman.
He said any private medical centre which had the facilities should render its services during an emergency.
“To avoid confusion or problems, they should also provide information on their signboards to indicate whether they are equipped with an emergency department, a surgery or other facilities.
“If they do not have the facilities, they should at least render first aid or help to stabilise the patient before calling an ambulance or arranging to have the patient transferred to the nearest hospital.’’
Dr Abu Bakar, who is a former Director-General of Health, said although most private hospitals are doing their best, there is a need to address this issue and overcome the problem.
He said the APHM would also raise this matter at its next board meeting.
Concerned over recent allegations that some private hospitals had refused to render emergency treatment to patients who were unable to pay a deposit first, the APHM said these establishments should not forget that their primary duty was to provide healthcare.
“If you are in the healthcare business, the interest of the patient must be given priority over everything. This is not to say that their business concerns should be overlooked but due care must be given in a life-threatening situation. It is simply unacceptable not to provide treatment in such a situation. To delay treatment would be inhuman,’’ said APHM president Tan Sr Dr Abu Bakar Suleiman.
He said any private medical centre which had the facilities should render its services during an emergency.
“To avoid confusion or problems, they should also provide information on their signboards to indicate whether they are equipped with an emergency department, a surgery or other facilities.
“If they do not have the facilities, they should at least render first aid or help to stabilise the patient before calling an ambulance or arranging to have the patient transferred to the nearest hospital.’’
Dr Abu Bakar, who is a former Director-General of Health, said although most private hospitals are doing their best, there is a need to address this issue and overcome the problem.
He said the APHM would also raise this matter at its next board meeting.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Govt allows hermaphrodites to have sex change
Sun2Surf: KUALA LUMPUR: Hermaphrodites in the country are allowed to undergo sex change surgery to turn them into the sex which they are comfortable said Women and Family Development Ministry parliamentary secretary, Chew Mei Fun.
She said hermaphrodites can choose which sex is more dominant in their physical body before deciding on the option of such surgery.
Replying to points raised by MPs during the Committee Stage of the Budget 2006, she said at this juncture has not compiled the number of hermaphrodites in the country yet.
She was responding to Fadilah Yusof (BN - Petrajaya) who suggested a separate gender category for hermaphrodites in identification card (IC).
He said such a move would also allow the ministry to compile and keep track of the number of hermaphrodites in the country.
Fadilah said once the hermaphrodites reach puberty, would enable them to decide which sex that they are comfortable or dominant in them.
"Through doctors' verification, they can indicate to the National Registration Department that they are more inclined to become a male or female and be placed under the "doubtful hermaphrodites" category", he said.
She said hermaphrodites can choose which sex is more dominant in their physical body before deciding on the option of such surgery.
Replying to points raised by MPs during the Committee Stage of the Budget 2006, she said at this juncture has not compiled the number of hermaphrodites in the country yet.
She was responding to Fadilah Yusof (BN - Petrajaya) who suggested a separate gender category for hermaphrodites in identification card (IC).
He said such a move would also allow the ministry to compile and keep track of the number of hermaphrodites in the country.
Fadilah said once the hermaphrodites reach puberty, would enable them to decide which sex that they are comfortable or dominant in them.
"Through doctors' verification, they can indicate to the National Registration Department that they are more inclined to become a male or female and be placed under the "doubtful hermaphrodites" category", he said.
Housewife dies of dengue fever
Star: SEREMBAN: A 22-year-old housewife died of dengue fever on Thursday evening, five days after being admitted to the Seremban General Hospital.
Raja Siti Norkhalijah Raja Yusof died at 7.15pm.
This brings the number of dengue fever deaths in the state to seven.
State Health Department director Datuk Dr Rosnah Ismail said yesterday that based on initial investigations, Raja Siti Norkhalijah delayed getting treatment even though she had fever three days before being admitted.
“She was in critical condition when she came to the hospital," she said.
Dr Rosnah added that the case was the first traced to Taman Syukur, the housing estate where the housewife lived, although records showed that dengue cases had been found at a village about 100m from the victim’s house.
Raja Siti Norkhalijah Raja Yusof died at 7.15pm.
This brings the number of dengue fever deaths in the state to seven.
State Health Department director Datuk Dr Rosnah Ismail said yesterday that based on initial investigations, Raja Siti Norkhalijah delayed getting treatment even though she had fever three days before being admitted.
“She was in critical condition when she came to the hospital," she said.
Dr Rosnah added that the case was the first traced to Taman Syukur, the housing estate where the housewife lived, although records showed that dengue cases had been found at a village about 100m from the victim’s house.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Always treat patients first , payment can come later
Star: PETALING JAYA: It is the duty of private hospitals to make every attempt to evaluate and stabilise a patient before asking for a deposit, said president of the Association of Private Hospitals Malaysia Tan Sri Dr Abu Bakar Suleiman.
“Private hospitals should make every attempt to do this. I can understand that there are difficulties at time but you cannot allow a very ill patient to go unattended.
“If the hospitals feel that they cannot continue the treatment, then arrangements should be made to transfer the patient safely to another hospital,” he said yesterday.
He was asked to comment on the report that student Khairul Anuar Salim, 17, who was stabbed, was not given treatment by a private hospital as he had no cash or credit card to make a deposit. The boy later died.
During the 10pm incident last Saturday, Khairul ticked off two men who teased a female friend of his.
The men approached Khairul and slashed him with a sickle before fleeing.
Health Minister Dr Chua Soi Lek had said on Wednesday that the private hospital was being investigated for allegedly failing to provide emergency treatment.
Dr Abu Bakar said this issue was not new and had been brought up in the past.
“What the ministry has directed is also what has been stated by the previous minister. If a patient comes in very sick, he should be attended to. This is our stand,” he added.
President of the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Datuk Dr Teoh Siang Chin said saving lives should be the priority of any doctor.
“All doctors will treat first. In emergencies like this, saving lives comes first and there is no question of that.
“Maybe the procedures involved need to be overcome. The MMA fully supports the directive from the Health Minister."
“Private hospitals should make every attempt to do this. I can understand that there are difficulties at time but you cannot allow a very ill patient to go unattended.
“If the hospitals feel that they cannot continue the treatment, then arrangements should be made to transfer the patient safely to another hospital,” he said yesterday.
He was asked to comment on the report that student Khairul Anuar Salim, 17, who was stabbed, was not given treatment by a private hospital as he had no cash or credit card to make a deposit. The boy later died.
During the 10pm incident last Saturday, Khairul ticked off two men who teased a female friend of his.
The men approached Khairul and slashed him with a sickle before fleeing.
Health Minister Dr Chua Soi Lek had said on Wednesday that the private hospital was being investigated for allegedly failing to provide emergency treatment.
Dr Abu Bakar said this issue was not new and had been brought up in the past.
“What the ministry has directed is also what has been stated by the previous minister. If a patient comes in very sick, he should be attended to. This is our stand,” he added.
President of the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Datuk Dr Teoh Siang Chin said saving lives should be the priority of any doctor.
“All doctors will treat first. In emergencies like this, saving lives comes first and there is no question of that.
“Maybe the procedures involved need to be overcome. The MMA fully supports the directive from the Health Minister."
Health workers first
NST: Civil servants in the frontline battle against bird flu will be vaccinated when the first batch of the Tamiflu vaccine arrives in June.
Top on the list are the 220,000 doctors, nurses, medical assistants and Veterinary Services Department officials.
Then come firefighters, policemen, soldiers and other groups which will be identified from time to time, Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek told reporters today.
This will cost the Government RM5 million.
Dr Chua said the vaccination was not for everyone in the country as no single vaccine had been proven effective against the deadly disease. "We will only vaccinate those who may be exposed to it," he said.
Dr Chua earlier had a meeting with state health directors, Agriculture Ministry officials and professional bodies at his ministry.
He said the Cabinet had approved an additional RM60 million for the fight against bird flu, including stockpiling Tamiflu for 2.5 per cent of the population.
The maker of the drug, Roche, will supply the Tamiflu vaccine every year for four years. The first batch will cost RM40 million.
Dr Chua said the vaccine would only arrive in June as Roche could not cope with the demand.
He said he had also received reports of pharmacies selling Tamiflu at the exorbitant prices of up to RM180 per course.
"But Roche assured me it is not giving the vaccine to the pharmacies. The company is giving it to the Government," he said.
He added that there were also pharmacies using the name of the ministry, the Health Minister and the Director-General to purchase the drug.
The Tamiflu vaccine does not protect people from bird flu, but it helps reduce complications if they contract the disease. "It enhances survival so I don’t understand why people want to take it now," Dr Chua said.
Dr Chua said the ministry was identifying more hospitals to be placed on standby for a possible epidemic. So far, 21 hospitals have been alerted.
The ministry’s sentinel centres are currently conducting surveillance and monitoring efforts to chart the progress of the disease.
Top on the list are the 220,000 doctors, nurses, medical assistants and Veterinary Services Department officials.
Then come firefighters, policemen, soldiers and other groups which will be identified from time to time, Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek told reporters today.
This will cost the Government RM5 million.
Dr Chua said the vaccination was not for everyone in the country as no single vaccine had been proven effective against the deadly disease. "We will only vaccinate those who may be exposed to it," he said.
Dr Chua earlier had a meeting with state health directors, Agriculture Ministry officials and professional bodies at his ministry.
He said the Cabinet had approved an additional RM60 million for the fight against bird flu, including stockpiling Tamiflu for 2.5 per cent of the population.
The maker of the drug, Roche, will supply the Tamiflu vaccine every year for four years. The first batch will cost RM40 million.
Dr Chua said the vaccine would only arrive in June as Roche could not cope with the demand.
He said he had also received reports of pharmacies selling Tamiflu at the exorbitant prices of up to RM180 per course.
"But Roche assured me it is not giving the vaccine to the pharmacies. The company is giving it to the Government," he said.
He added that there were also pharmacies using the name of the ministry, the Health Minister and the Director-General to purchase the drug.
The Tamiflu vaccine does not protect people from bird flu, but it helps reduce complications if they contract the disease. "It enhances survival so I don’t understand why people want to take it now," Dr Chua said.
Dr Chua said the ministry was identifying more hospitals to be placed on standby for a possible epidemic. So far, 21 hospitals have been alerted.
The ministry’s sentinel centres are currently conducting surveillance and monitoring efforts to chart the progress of the disease.
Not Enough Public Awareness On Avian Flu - Disaster Expert
BANGKOK, Dec 1 (Bernama) --- Governments in the region have to intensify public awareness on the threat of avian flu or bird flu virus and compensate poor people whose livestock is culled to stop the virus from becoming pandemic, a disaster management expert said Thursday.
Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre executive director Suvit Yodmani said that while many people were aware of the bird flu virus, it was important to ensure that the message reached those in the remote areas as they were more vulnerable.
"Public awareness is essential... people must know the danger of this virus, how to avoid it and where to get help. It must be stopped at the first instance," he said on the sidelines of the First International Symposium on Health GIS (Geo Information System) here.
He said that since the bird flu resurfaced after first hitting the region two years ago, many of the victims were farmers and villagers in the remote parts of affected countries like China, Vietnam and Thailand.
"Who can tell them not to handle sick chicken. They may have five or six chickens and that is their source of income or food," he said.
The World Health Organisation has issued a warning that bird flu will trigger an international pandemic that could kill several million people.
There have been three pandemics in the 20th century, all spread worldwide within a year of being detected.
The worst was the Spanish flu in 1918-19, when as many as 50 million people worldwide are thought to have died. The Asian flu pandemic of 1957 claimed nearly 70,000 lives in the United States and one million worldwide after spreading from China.
In 1968, the Hong Kong flu pandemic is also said to have killed around one million people.
Asia's death toll from bird flu this year has reached 69, including eight in Indonesia and 42 in Vietnam.
Suvit said that to control the virus, culling of poultry was one of the best options but the authorities must come out with proper guidelines and compensation mechanisms so that the affected farmers would be cooperative and their livelihood not jeopardised.
He said other countries in the region could adopt Thailand's success in controlling the virus, where thousand of volunteers were mobilised throughout the country to inform the authorities if they notice signs of these problems in their neighbourhoods.
He said fast action was necessary as the virus could easily spread to other parts of the world.
The ADPC, founded by three United Nations agencies, was working closely with other agencies and governments in the region through disaster management where technical assistance and advice to deal with such problems were given, said Suvit.
"In disaster management, response to disaster alone is not enough, we must also come out with preventive measures. Some of the disasters like avian flu or SARS might be due to development," he said.
Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre executive director Suvit Yodmani said that while many people were aware of the bird flu virus, it was important to ensure that the message reached those in the remote areas as they were more vulnerable.
"Public awareness is essential... people must know the danger of this virus, how to avoid it and where to get help. It must be stopped at the first instance," he said on the sidelines of the First International Symposium on Health GIS (Geo Information System) here.
He said that since the bird flu resurfaced after first hitting the region two years ago, many of the victims were farmers and villagers in the remote parts of affected countries like China, Vietnam and Thailand.
"Who can tell them not to handle sick chicken. They may have five or six chickens and that is their source of income or food," he said.
The World Health Organisation has issued a warning that bird flu will trigger an international pandemic that could kill several million people.
There have been three pandemics in the 20th century, all spread worldwide within a year of being detected.
The worst was the Spanish flu in 1918-19, when as many as 50 million people worldwide are thought to have died. The Asian flu pandemic of 1957 claimed nearly 70,000 lives in the United States and one million worldwide after spreading from China.
In 1968, the Hong Kong flu pandemic is also said to have killed around one million people.
Asia's death toll from bird flu this year has reached 69, including eight in Indonesia and 42 in Vietnam.
Suvit said that to control the virus, culling of poultry was one of the best options but the authorities must come out with proper guidelines and compensation mechanisms so that the affected farmers would be cooperative and their livelihood not jeopardised.
He said other countries in the region could adopt Thailand's success in controlling the virus, where thousand of volunteers were mobilised throughout the country to inform the authorities if they notice signs of these problems in their neighbourhoods.
He said fast action was necessary as the virus could easily spread to other parts of the world.
The ADPC, founded by three United Nations agencies, was working closely with other agencies and governments in the region through disaster management where technical assistance and advice to deal with such problems were given, said Suvit.
"In disaster management, response to disaster alone is not enough, we must also come out with preventive measures. Some of the disasters like avian flu or SARS might be due to development," he said.
Cabinet Approves RM60 Mln To Prepare For Bird Flu
PUTRAJAYA, Dec 1 (Bernama) -- The cabinet has approved an allocation of RM60 million to enhance the country's state of preparedness to face the deadly bird flu (avian influenza) disease.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said the money would be spent on programmes like stockpiling anti-viral drugs, upgrading hospitals to accommodate patients and increasing awareness about the disease and vaccinating people in high-risk category.
He said some 220,000 people had been initially identified for vaccination against the bird flu if it arrives on Malaysian shores.
They comprise those who would be exposed to the disease, such as personnel of the veterinary services department, doctors, nurses, some of the staff of the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry and members of the police and military forces as well as Fire Department personnel.
"And we will continue to identify people categorised as high-risk for vaccination from time to time," Dr Chua told reporters after chairing a meeting on preparations for the bird flu with state executive councillors in charge of health matters.
Dr Chua said RM40 million would be spent to stockpile medicine and RM5 million for the initial vaccination programme.
He said the authorities would stockpile the anti-viral drug "Tamiflu" for 2.5 per cent of the total population annually. The shelf life of the Tamiflu is four years.
"We have been informed by the medicine's maker, Roche, that it will begin to arrive starting June next year. For now, what we have is enough for 60,000 people," he added.
Dr Chua took a swipe at pharmacists who misused his name as well as that of the Health Ministry to get their hands on the drug, with some selling Tamiflu at inflated prices of up to RM180.
"But Roche did assure me that they are not giving it to the pharmacists. They want to reserve it for the government because in the event of an emergency, it is not the isolated response and taking Tamiflu that will prevent the disease from spreading," he said.
He expressed the hope that Malaysians would not panic or take the drug unnecessarily.
"The Tamiflu that they take does not confer immunity (against bird flu), they must understand that. It only reduces complications when you have the disease. That's all. I don't understand why some people are taking it now," he said.
Dr Chua further said that 21 hospitals nationwide had been identified to accommodate bird flu patients and the figure was set to be increased.
He said brochures explaining the disease were now available in Bahasa Malaysia and soon they would be translated into English, Mandarin and Tamil.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said the money would be spent on programmes like stockpiling anti-viral drugs, upgrading hospitals to accommodate patients and increasing awareness about the disease and vaccinating people in high-risk category.
He said some 220,000 people had been initially identified for vaccination against the bird flu if it arrives on Malaysian shores.
They comprise those who would be exposed to the disease, such as personnel of the veterinary services department, doctors, nurses, some of the staff of the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry and members of the police and military forces as well as Fire Department personnel.
"And we will continue to identify people categorised as high-risk for vaccination from time to time," Dr Chua told reporters after chairing a meeting on preparations for the bird flu with state executive councillors in charge of health matters.
Dr Chua said RM40 million would be spent to stockpile medicine and RM5 million for the initial vaccination programme.
He said the authorities would stockpile the anti-viral drug "Tamiflu" for 2.5 per cent of the total population annually. The shelf life of the Tamiflu is four years.
"We have been informed by the medicine's maker, Roche, that it will begin to arrive starting June next year. For now, what we have is enough for 60,000 people," he added.
Dr Chua took a swipe at pharmacists who misused his name as well as that of the Health Ministry to get their hands on the drug, with some selling Tamiflu at inflated prices of up to RM180.
"But Roche did assure me that they are not giving it to the pharmacists. They want to reserve it for the government because in the event of an emergency, it is not the isolated response and taking Tamiflu that will prevent the disease from spreading," he said.
He expressed the hope that Malaysians would not panic or take the drug unnecessarily.
"The Tamiflu that they take does not confer immunity (against bird flu), they must understand that. It only reduces complications when you have the disease. That's all. I don't understand why some people are taking it now," he said.
Dr Chua further said that 21 hospitals nationwide had been identified to accommodate bird flu patients and the figure was set to be increased.
He said brochures explaining the disease were now available in Bahasa Malaysia and soon they would be translated into English, Mandarin and Tamil.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
Malaysia expects HIV cases to hit 300,000 in 10 years
Todayonline:Malaysia is expected to register a jump in HIV cases in 2015 to 300,000 people from about 65,000 now.
Lee Kah Choon, parliamentary secretary to the health minister told lawmakers in parliament that 18 HIV cases are reported daily and 7,500 have died in Malaysia battling the disease.
Lee said some 3,500 HIV patients were undergoing treatment under the "highly active anti-retroviral therapy."
With a population of 25 million people, Malaysia has pledged to step up its battle against HIV/AIDS after the United Nations said the virus had infected many more than the official government estimate.
"We have to halt the sexual spread of HIV/AIDS and this can only be done through education," health department director-general Ismail Merican was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
Ismail said that some 65,000 people in Malaysia had been diagnosed with HIV by the end of 2004. But the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said it believes some 81,000 Malaysians could be infected.
Nafis Sadik, UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Asia, told the New Straits Times that the situation in Malaysia had developed into a "generalised epidemic" with the virus having spread beyond high-risk groups.
Sadik urged Malaysia to cast aside the denial and stigma often attached to HIV/AIDS patients and hailed the government's move to provide fresh needles and condoms to HIV-positive drug addicts.
The government's plan to distribute free needles and condoms has been attacked by critics as going against religious teachings and being a waste of public funds.
Some 75 percent of HIV-infected Malaysians are intravenous drug users. — AFP
Malaysia is expected to register a jump in HIV cases in 2015 to 300,000 people from about 65,000 now.
Lee Kah Choon, parliamentary secretary to the health minister told lawmakers in parliament that 18 HIV cases are reported daily and 7,500 have died in Malaysia battling the disease.
Lee said some 3,500 HIV patients were undergoing treatment under the "highly active anti-retroviral therapy."
With a population of 25 million people, Malaysia has pledged to step up its battle against HIV/AIDS after the United Nations said the virus had infected many more than the official government estimate.
"We have to halt the sexual spread of HIV/AIDS and this can only be done through education," health department director-general Ismail Merican was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
Ismail said that some 65,000 people in Malaysia had been diagnosed with HIV by the end of 2004. But the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said it believes some 81,000 Malaysians could be infected.
Nafis Sadik, UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Asia, told the New Straits Times that the situation in Malaysia had developed into a "generalised epidemic" with the virus having spread beyond high-risk groups.
Sadik urged Malaysia to cast aside the denial and stigma often attached to HIV/AIDS patients and hailed the government's move to provide fresh needles and condoms to HIV-positive drug addicts.
.
The government's plan to distribute free needles and condoms has been attacked by critics as going against religious teachings and being a waste of public funds.
.
Some 75 percent of HIV-infected Malaysians are intravenous drug users.
Lee Kah Choon, parliamentary secretary to the health minister told lawmakers in parliament that 18 HIV cases are reported daily and 7,500 have died in Malaysia battling the disease.
Lee said some 3,500 HIV patients were undergoing treatment under the "highly active anti-retroviral therapy."
With a population of 25 million people, Malaysia has pledged to step up its battle against HIV/AIDS after the United Nations said the virus had infected many more than the official government estimate.
"We have to halt the sexual spread of HIV/AIDS and this can only be done through education," health department director-general Ismail Merican was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
Ismail said that some 65,000 people in Malaysia had been diagnosed with HIV by the end of 2004. But the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said it believes some 81,000 Malaysians could be infected.
Nafis Sadik, UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Asia, told the New Straits Times that the situation in Malaysia had developed into a "generalised epidemic" with the virus having spread beyond high-risk groups.
Sadik urged Malaysia to cast aside the denial and stigma often attached to HIV/AIDS patients and hailed the government's move to provide fresh needles and condoms to HIV-positive drug addicts.
The government's plan to distribute free needles and condoms has been attacked by critics as going against religious teachings and being a waste of public funds.
Some 75 percent of HIV-infected Malaysians are intravenous drug users. — AFP
Malaysia is expected to register a jump in HIV cases in 2015 to 300,000 people from about 65,000 now.
Lee Kah Choon, parliamentary secretary to the health minister told lawmakers in parliament that 18 HIV cases are reported daily and 7,500 have died in Malaysia battling the disease.
Lee said some 3,500 HIV patients were undergoing treatment under the "highly active anti-retroviral therapy."
With a population of 25 million people, Malaysia has pledged to step up its battle against HIV/AIDS after the United Nations said the virus had infected many more than the official government estimate.
"We have to halt the sexual spread of HIV/AIDS and this can only be done through education," health department director-general Ismail Merican was quoted as saying by the New Straits Times.
Ismail said that some 65,000 people in Malaysia had been diagnosed with HIV by the end of 2004. But the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) said it believes some 81,000 Malaysians could be infected.
Nafis Sadik, UN special envoy for HIV/AIDS in Asia, told the New Straits Times that the situation in Malaysia had developed into a "generalised epidemic" with the virus having spread beyond high-risk groups.
Sadik urged Malaysia to cast aside the denial and stigma often attached to HIV/AIDS patients and hailed the government's move to provide fresh needles and condoms to HIV-positive drug addicts.
.
The government's plan to distribute free needles and condoms has been attacked by critics as going against religious teachings and being a waste of public funds.
.
Some 75 percent of HIV-infected Malaysians are intravenous drug users.
KPJ acquires 65% stake in Sabah hospital
theedgedaily:KPJ Healthcare Bhd recently acquired a 65% stake in Kota Kinabalu-based Damai Specialist Centre (DSC) for RM10.47 million.
The hospital group said the acquisition of DSC will benefit the hospital significantly as KPJ will provide hospital management expertise while leaving the medical personnel to focus on their clinical activities.
"Expansion plans have also been put in place for a new building and purchase of new equipment, as well as renovations bringing total beds to 60 and 14 new clinics," it said on Nov 30.
The new building is expected to be completed by end of 2005. In addition, the new medical equipment and facilities are expected to boost hospital revenue and complement the services of other KPJ hospitals throughout Malaysia.
KPJ chairman Tan Sri Muhammad Ali Hashim said the decision to acquire DSC would provide a stepping stone for KPJ to enter new markets.
"Over the last few years, we have been very focused in our strategy of growing the KPJ Healthcare network across the region in the area of hospital management,” he said.
DSC provided the appropriate avenue for KPJ to further grow its healthcare tourism sector as DSC caters to foreign patients from Brunei, the Philippines, Indonesia and Hong Kong due to the reputation of its medical consultants.
As part of the acquisition, KPJ will also subscribe to RM6 million of DSC’s 6% cumulative convertible loan stock and these will be used to fund the upgrading work of the hospital by improving facilities and finance capital expenditure.
"The loan stock will be convertible into shares at any time at par value," it said.
KPJ is now the largest private healthcare group in the country with a network of 17 hospitals in Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh.
The hospital group said the acquisition of DSC will benefit the hospital significantly as KPJ will provide hospital management expertise while leaving the medical personnel to focus on their clinical activities.
"Expansion plans have also been put in place for a new building and purchase of new equipment, as well as renovations bringing total beds to 60 and 14 new clinics," it said on Nov 30.
The new building is expected to be completed by end of 2005. In addition, the new medical equipment and facilities are expected to boost hospital revenue and complement the services of other KPJ hospitals throughout Malaysia.
KPJ chairman Tan Sri Muhammad Ali Hashim said the decision to acquire DSC would provide a stepping stone for KPJ to enter new markets.
"Over the last few years, we have been very focused in our strategy of growing the KPJ Healthcare network across the region in the area of hospital management,” he said.
DSC provided the appropriate avenue for KPJ to further grow its healthcare tourism sector as DSC caters to foreign patients from Brunei, the Philippines, Indonesia and Hong Kong due to the reputation of its medical consultants.
As part of the acquisition, KPJ will also subscribe to RM6 million of DSC’s 6% cumulative convertible loan stock and these will be used to fund the upgrading work of the hospital by improving facilities and finance capital expenditure.
"The loan stock will be convertible into shares at any time at par value," it said.
KPJ is now the largest private healthcare group in the country with a network of 17 hospitals in Malaysia, Indonesia and Bangladesh.
Cabinet Orders Private Hospitals To Give Emergency Treatment
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 30 (Bernama) -- All private hospitals must give emergency treatment to patients in need, failing which the Health Ministry will either suspend or revoke their licences.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said this directive came from the Cabinet during its weekly meeting, Wednesday.
Many complaints had been received on the failure of private hospitals to give emergency treatment and some patients had died as a result, he said.
He cited the latest case that happened two days ago when a private hospital in Cheras did not give emergency treatment to a 17-year-old youth who was stabbed because the deposit had not been paid.
"They waited until his relatives came with enough deposit before giving him the treatment but the youth died before he could be saved," he told reporters after opening the 10th Asian Research Symposium on Rhinology, here Wednesday.
Expressing regret over the incident, Dr Chua said private hospitals should understand that during emergencies, no patients could afford to provide enough deposits.
They should give emergency treatment first and settle the issue of payment later, he said.
It was the responsibility of any hospital or doctor to give treatment in an emergency, he said. "So, the Cabinet today decided that hospitals that refuse to give emergency treatment will have their licences revoked."
He said the Health Ministry would issue a set of guidelines and definition of "emergency treatment" to all private hospitals soon so that disputes would not arise on the definition.
"If the private hospitals neglect their responsibility, the Health Director-General can suspend or revoke their licences," he said.
The power of the Health Director-General to suspend or revoke the licences of private hospitals is contained in the Private Hospitals Act 1971.
Dr Chua said investigations were being carried out on complaints against private hospitals that had neglected their responsibility to give emergency treatment.
He refused to name the hospitals.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said this directive came from the Cabinet during its weekly meeting, Wednesday.
Many complaints had been received on the failure of private hospitals to give emergency treatment and some patients had died as a result, he said.
He cited the latest case that happened two days ago when a private hospital in Cheras did not give emergency treatment to a 17-year-old youth who was stabbed because the deposit had not been paid.
"They waited until his relatives came with enough deposit before giving him the treatment but the youth died before he could be saved," he told reporters after opening the 10th Asian Research Symposium on Rhinology, here Wednesday.
Expressing regret over the incident, Dr Chua said private hospitals should understand that during emergencies, no patients could afford to provide enough deposits.
They should give emergency treatment first and settle the issue of payment later, he said.
It was the responsibility of any hospital or doctor to give treatment in an emergency, he said. "So, the Cabinet today decided that hospitals that refuse to give emergency treatment will have their licences revoked."
He said the Health Ministry would issue a set of guidelines and definition of "emergency treatment" to all private hospitals soon so that disputes would not arise on the definition.
"If the private hospitals neglect their responsibility, the Health Director-General can suspend or revoke their licences," he said.
The power of the Health Director-General to suspend or revoke the licences of private hospitals is contained in the Private Hospitals Act 1971.
Dr Chua said investigations were being carried out on complaints against private hospitals that had neglected their responsibility to give emergency treatment.
He refused to name the hospitals.
Pantai to invest RM40m on health tourism
TheEdgeDaily: Pantai Holdings Bhd will invest RM40 million next year to upgrade and set up new facilities as part of its plan to become a regional medical hub to tap into the lucrative health tourism market, said its director Dr Lim Cheok Peng.
The healthcare group will undertake the expansion plan to cater for foreign patients, and targets to be a regional medical hub in two to three years time.
The company saw a change in its major shareholders recently following the emergence of Singapore-based Parkways Holdings Ltd with a 31% stake.
Dr Lim, who is also the managing director of Parkways, said Pantai was renovating four wards at the Pantai Medical Centre in Kuala Lumpur to create an international wing.
He said the group was also setting up a RM20 million facility in Batu Pahat, Johor that would handle the spill over of patients from its hospital in Ayer Keroh, Melaka where there is a substantial number of international patients from Indonesia.
“We will be embarking on a major drive as soon as we have our new facilities in place to cater for the needs of international patients.
“If medical tourism is going to take off in a big way, then obviously we have to move ahead and bring in all the infrastructure to be able to cope with all the foreign patients coming into Malaysia,” Dr Lim told reporters after the group’s AGM in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 30.
He said the international wing at Pantai Medical Centre in Kuala Lumpur would be ready soon while the Batu Pahat facility was expected to be operational by the end of 2006.
At the moment, international patients only make up 5% of Pantai’s patients but Dr Lim wants to raise it to 15% within the next two to three years, specifically by attracting patients from Indonesia and Singapore.
On its outlook for next year, he said Pantai’s results in the first quarter ended September 30, 2005 indicated the group was moving in the right direction. During that period, the group posted a net profit of RM18.38 million.
Besides health tourism, Lim said Pantai had also invested some RM8 million on a multi-disciplinary cancer centre at the Pantai Medical Centre over the next six to nine months.
Asked about some members of parliament against a Singaporean-based company acquiring a major stake in Pantai, Lim said he had no knowledge on the matter except for what had been reported in the media.
He added that Parkway intended to remain a major shareholder in Pantai but there were no plans to make a general offer.
The healthcare group will undertake the expansion plan to cater for foreign patients, and targets to be a regional medical hub in two to three years time.
The company saw a change in its major shareholders recently following the emergence of Singapore-based Parkways Holdings Ltd with a 31% stake.
Dr Lim, who is also the managing director of Parkways, said Pantai was renovating four wards at the Pantai Medical Centre in Kuala Lumpur to create an international wing.
He said the group was also setting up a RM20 million facility in Batu Pahat, Johor that would handle the spill over of patients from its hospital in Ayer Keroh, Melaka where there is a substantial number of international patients from Indonesia.
“We will be embarking on a major drive as soon as we have our new facilities in place to cater for the needs of international patients.
“If medical tourism is going to take off in a big way, then obviously we have to move ahead and bring in all the infrastructure to be able to cope with all the foreign patients coming into Malaysia,” Dr Lim told reporters after the group’s AGM in Kuala Lumpur on Nov 30.
He said the international wing at Pantai Medical Centre in Kuala Lumpur would be ready soon while the Batu Pahat facility was expected to be operational by the end of 2006.
At the moment, international patients only make up 5% of Pantai’s patients but Dr Lim wants to raise it to 15% within the next two to three years, specifically by attracting patients from Indonesia and Singapore.
On its outlook for next year, he said Pantai’s results in the first quarter ended September 30, 2005 indicated the group was moving in the right direction. During that period, the group posted a net profit of RM18.38 million.
Besides health tourism, Lim said Pantai had also invested some RM8 million on a multi-disciplinary cancer centre at the Pantai Medical Centre over the next six to nine months.
Asked about some members of parliament against a Singaporean-based company acquiring a major stake in Pantai, Lim said he had no knowledge on the matter except for what had been reported in the media.
He added that Parkway intended to remain a major shareholder in Pantai but there were no plans to make a general offer.
TMC eyes US health tourism market
TheEdgeDaily:TMC Life Sciences Bhd (TMC) is eyeing to promote Malaysia as a health tourism destination to the US market following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with California-based travel agency Van Vic Vacations.
In the tie-up, Van Vic Vacations, which has offices in San Jose, Burlingame and San Francisco, would be allowed to offer health tourism packages for fertility treatment services at centres owned by TMC.
In a statement on Nov 30, TMC chairman Professor Datuk Dr Khalid Abdul Kadir said: “The signing of the agreement marks our first foray into the US market and we are exhilarated with the progress of our health tourism initiatives.”
Since 2004, TMC had proactively marketed its fertility treatment services abroad and had penetrated the regional, Middle East, Japan and China markets, he said.
“We are pleased to note a steady number of in-bound patients from these countries resulting from these initiatives.”
TMC is the investment holding company of the Damansara Women’s Specialist Centre Sdn Bhd and the Damansara Fertility Centre Sdn Bhd. The group has three centres in Damansara Utama, Kepong and Johor Bahru.
In the tie-up, Van Vic Vacations, which has offices in San Jose, Burlingame and San Francisco, would be allowed to offer health tourism packages for fertility treatment services at centres owned by TMC.
In a statement on Nov 30, TMC chairman Professor Datuk Dr Khalid Abdul Kadir said: “The signing of the agreement marks our first foray into the US market and we are exhilarated with the progress of our health tourism initiatives.”
Since 2004, TMC had proactively marketed its fertility treatment services abroad and had penetrated the regional, Middle East, Japan and China markets, he said.
“We are pleased to note a steady number of in-bound patients from these countries resulting from these initiatives.”
TMC is the investment holding company of the Damansara Women’s Specialist Centre Sdn Bhd and the Damansara Fertility Centre Sdn Bhd. The group has three centres in Damansara Utama, Kepong and Johor Bahru.
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