Star: PUTRAJAYA: All foreign workers in the country must from now undergo three mandatory medical screenings in the first two years of their arrival.
This is because 40,000 immigrant workers have been found to be carriers of contagious diseases in a recent random check, and the Government is concerned over the health risks posed to Malaysians, according to Health Minister Datuk Chua Soi Lek.
Under the new ruling approved by the Cabinet, foreign workers, including domestic maids, have to undergo compulsory screening within the first month of arrival and again, at the end of the year. A third check is required at the end of the second year.
Chua said the Government wanted to ensure that foreign workers were free from contagious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, syphilis, hepatitis B and HIV/AIDS.
Currently, new workers are only required to undergo health examination within a month of arrival.
Chua urged employers to abide by the new ruling, which also applied to existing workers, with immediate effect.
There are an estimated 1.8 million registered immigrant workers and 500,000 illegal workers in the country.
“The Government is concerned over the possible spread of diseases brought in by immigrant workers,” he said, adding that in many cases the workers were already infected upon arrival.
“For this reason, we insist that all employers send their foreign workers, including domestic maids, for medical screening in the first two years,” he said.
He added that the health authorities detected about 40,000 foreign workers who were carriers of diseases in a random survey last year.
Recently in Penang, health officials found four foreign workers at a construction site infected with malaria, two of whom were admitted to hospital.
“Further checks showed that 18 more workers at the site were also infected. After getting the test results, health officials went back to the site in hope of giving treatment but found that the workers, believed to be illegals, had disappeared.
“Imagine, what could happened if they took shelter in a village – the villagers would have been exposed to malaria,” he said.
Under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, he added, a Communicable Disease Centre would be established in Sungai Buloh to tackle emerging and re-emerging diseases.
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
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
MPs rap rude young docs
Sun2Surf: KUALA LUMPUR: The arrogant attitude of some government officers when dealing with their customers was the focus of debate in the Dewan Rakyat by several MPs today (April 17, 2006).
Most of their criticisms were directed at young doctors in the Health Ministry serving in rural areas, whom they said were not sensitive to patient-care.
At the height of the debate, Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh (BN-Kalabakan) said: "Many matters had been raised about the shortcomings of the Health Ministry. The Minister must take responsibility. One day we might move a motion for his salary to be cut, even if it is only by RM10."
Ghapur when debating the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) said: "There was an incident in which a young doctor did not attend to a patient first but was busy on the handphone's short messaging service (SMS)."
Recalling another experience he had with a doctor in a government hospital, Abdul Ghapur said he had once been chased away from the treatment room when he brought a road accident victim.He said while driving to the hospital, he had telephoned the hospital authorities and asked for a doctor to be on stand-by.
"However, when I got there, I myself had to carry the patient into the treatment room and place him on a bed and there was no doctor waiting.
"What made matters even worse was that when the doctor finally came in, he immediatley started shouting and ordered everyone present to get out without even asking who had brought the patient in," he said.
The attitude of doctors who put personal interests over service also got the attention of Datuk Raja Ahmad Zainuddin Raja Omar (BN-Larut) whosuggested that all young doctors be given courses before being posted to rural areas.
Datuk Badruddin Amiruldin (BN-Jerai) also related a bitter experience he had when dealing with a high ranking government officer in Sungai Petani, Kedah, with the officer even mouthing,"Datuk, don't try to intimidate me."
Badruddin said at the time he was trying to get help for two women who had been retrenched without being given any compensation.
"I made countless calls to his office but he was always not in and only finally got to talk to him on his handphone. The officer told me he was busy and asked me to call him the next day. When I told him the case of the two women had dragged on for sometime, he had the gall to say "Datuk, can't you understand I am busy."
Most of their criticisms were directed at young doctors in the Health Ministry serving in rural areas, whom they said were not sensitive to patient-care.
At the height of the debate, Datuk Abdul Ghapur Salleh (BN-Kalabakan) said: "Many matters had been raised about the shortcomings of the Health Ministry. The Minister must take responsibility. One day we might move a motion for his salary to be cut, even if it is only by RM10."
Ghapur when debating the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) said: "There was an incident in which a young doctor did not attend to a patient first but was busy on the handphone's short messaging service (SMS)."
Recalling another experience he had with a doctor in a government hospital, Abdul Ghapur said he had once been chased away from the treatment room when he brought a road accident victim.He said while driving to the hospital, he had telephoned the hospital authorities and asked for a doctor to be on stand-by.
"However, when I got there, I myself had to carry the patient into the treatment room and place him on a bed and there was no doctor waiting.
"What made matters even worse was that when the doctor finally came in, he immediatley started shouting and ordered everyone present to get out without even asking who had brought the patient in," he said.
The attitude of doctors who put personal interests over service also got the attention of Datuk Raja Ahmad Zainuddin Raja Omar (BN-Larut) whosuggested that all young doctors be given courses before being posted to rural areas.
Datuk Badruddin Amiruldin (BN-Jerai) also related a bitter experience he had when dealing with a high ranking government officer in Sungai Petani, Kedah, with the officer even mouthing,"Datuk, don't try to intimidate me."
Badruddin said at the time he was trying to get help for two women who had been retrenched without being given any compensation.
"I made countless calls to his office but he was always not in and only finally got to talk to him on his handphone. The officer told me he was busy and asked me to call him the next day. When I told him the case of the two women had dragged on for sometime, he had the gall to say "Datuk, can't you understand I am busy."
Go abroad, unrecognised docs urged
Star: Malaysian Indian doctors from unrecognised universities should practise in other countries if they cannot get jobs at home, Tamil Nesan quoted MIC president Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu as advising them.
They should not be bent on working in their home country.
There are about 75 Indians who had obtained medical degrees from unrecognised universities and are unable to practise in Malaysia.
They also failed to pass the government examination despite sitting for it several times, citing changes in curriculum as one of the reasons.
Samy Vellu, speaking at a workshop in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, said they should work in places that recognised their degrees.
They should not be bent on working in their home country.
There are about 75 Indians who had obtained medical degrees from unrecognised universities and are unable to practise in Malaysia.
They also failed to pass the government examination despite sitting for it several times, citing changes in curriculum as one of the reasons.
Samy Vellu, speaking at a workshop in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, said they should work in places that recognised their degrees.
Neuroscientist returns to set up brain research centre
Star: PENANG: A scientist, who had made waves in the field of neuroscience and spent 30 years studying and working abroad, has returned home to set up a brain research centre in Malaysia.
“I came back as I have the opportunity to continue my research here,” said Prof Ishwar Parhar, 47, who had developed a technique to isolate single cell neurons.
He also has a personal reason to return to Malaysia.
“I want my year-old twin daughters to grow up in a multi-racial setting,” said the former director of the Molecular Neuroendocrinology Unit of the Nippon Medical School in Japan.
He is transferring his laboratory from Tokyo to the Monash University campus in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, where his Brain Research Centre will be based.
The planned centre, at the university’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, will be ready next year to study the brain and diseases of the brain.
“I have brought along five researchers from Japan to work here,” he said, adding that there should be concerted effort to attract more talents to the country.
Prof Ishwar said he would continue being a visiting professor to several world-renowned universities, including the Rockefeller University in New York, to maintain his research network.
He hoped to make the Malaysian centre also world-renowned.
“We plan to tie up the centre with all hospitals in the country to facilitate clinical research works,” he said, adding that the share in intellectual property rights had yet to be discussed.
“We are currently holding discussions with the Health Ministry on clinical research funding and future collaboration.”
The research works he will focus on concern genomic, proteomics, behaviour neurogenetic, nanomedicine, neuro informatics, brain imaging and brain diseases.
“For example, the study of behaviour neurogenetic will be useful to understand depression and anxiety,” said Prof Ishwar, who still maintains permanent resident status in Japan.
“Advances in nanomedical technology will pave the way for regenerative medicine.
“We may hit the jackpot if we can revive a paralysed limb using nano techniques to re-grow neurons in the right position.”
He commended the efforts by the Government to encourage the learning of Science and Mathematics in English.
“Even in Japan, English is being taught at the kindergarten level. The Japanese realise that it is important to master the language, as the mainstream scientific publications are in English.
Prof Ishwar, who returned home on Jan 1, brought his twins to the Vasakhi open house in Fort Cornwallis here on Saturday to celebrate their first birthday.
“My daughters were born in Penang, and I hope to raise them in Malaysia. I want them to be accustomed to Malaysian culture,” he said.
Prof Ishwar was among some of the brightest minds who spoke at the i2 (Innovation Initiative) seminar, organised by The Star in April last year.
He is an old boy of the St Xavier's Institution in Penang.
“I came back as I have the opportunity to continue my research here,” said Prof Ishwar Parhar, 47, who had developed a technique to isolate single cell neurons.
He also has a personal reason to return to Malaysia.
“I want my year-old twin daughters to grow up in a multi-racial setting,” said the former director of the Molecular Neuroendocrinology Unit of the Nippon Medical School in Japan.
He is transferring his laboratory from Tokyo to the Monash University campus in Bandar Sunway, Petaling Jaya, where his Brain Research Centre will be based.
The planned centre, at the university’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences, will be ready next year to study the brain and diseases of the brain.
“I have brought along five researchers from Japan to work here,” he said, adding that there should be concerted effort to attract more talents to the country.
Prof Ishwar said he would continue being a visiting professor to several world-renowned universities, including the Rockefeller University in New York, to maintain his research network.
He hoped to make the Malaysian centre also world-renowned.
“We plan to tie up the centre with all hospitals in the country to facilitate clinical research works,” he said, adding that the share in intellectual property rights had yet to be discussed.
“We are currently holding discussions with the Health Ministry on clinical research funding and future collaboration.”
The research works he will focus on concern genomic, proteomics, behaviour neurogenetic, nanomedicine, neuro informatics, brain imaging and brain diseases.
“For example, the study of behaviour neurogenetic will be useful to understand depression and anxiety,” said Prof Ishwar, who still maintains permanent resident status in Japan.
“Advances in nanomedical technology will pave the way for regenerative medicine.
“We may hit the jackpot if we can revive a paralysed limb using nano techniques to re-grow neurons in the right position.”
He commended the efforts by the Government to encourage the learning of Science and Mathematics in English.
“Even in Japan, English is being taught at the kindergarten level. The Japanese realise that it is important to master the language, as the mainstream scientific publications are in English.
Prof Ishwar, who returned home on Jan 1, brought his twins to the Vasakhi open house in Fort Cornwallis here on Saturday to celebrate their first birthday.
“My daughters were born in Penang, and I hope to raise them in Malaysia. I want them to be accustomed to Malaysian culture,” he said.
Prof Ishwar was among some of the brightest minds who spoke at the i2 (Innovation Initiative) seminar, organised by The Star in April last year.
He is an old boy of the St Xavier's Institution in Penang.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Cheaper drugs in the pipeline
NST: KUALA LUMPUR: Newer and cheaper medicines may be in the offing under the National Medicines Policy (NMP) now being finalised.
A copy of the NMP draft obtained by the New Straits Times says regulations will be put in place to ensure appropriate practices are followed.
The practices to be followed will be in such areas as the production and sale of drugs.
Regulations will be also strengthened on the development, import, supply, marketing and management of drugs, including their prescribing, dispensing and disposal, the draft says.
This focus of the NMP is part of the Health Ministry’s policy of reducing the country’s dependence on imported drugs.
"The development of the domestic pharmaceutical industry would lead to increased national self-sufficiency in pharmaceutical supplies and reduced excessive dependence on imports," says the draft.
"Generic substitution should be permitted and eventually legislated in order to improve affordability of medicines."
But cheaper drugs are not going to be on the shelves so soon, as the NMP is only now being finalised, after going through some nine drafts in the last 10 years or so.
The NMP aims at "securing the lowest available prices for products of defined specifications", especially for those under the National Essential Drugs List (NEDL), the draft says.
Health Ministry parliamentary secretary Datuk Lee Kah Choon said the NMP would also control the types of drugs coming into the country.
"As new drugs are being invented all the time, we have a problem of access.
"Pharmaceutical companies are always telling us what is the best drug to use.
"The policy can look into this and offer us options," he said.
Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society president John C.P. Chang said the NMP would encourage research into new products and ensure the quality of drugs and affordable prices.
"Our Government is very sensitive to over-pricing," he said.
"Although some studies show that generic drugs in Malaysia are expensive, others show that because the quality is high, the price is appropriate."
Under the NMP, the industry will be organised and regulated to create incentives and foster competition.
A copy of the NMP draft obtained by the New Straits Times says regulations will be put in place to ensure appropriate practices are followed.
The practices to be followed will be in such areas as the production and sale of drugs.
Regulations will be also strengthened on the development, import, supply, marketing and management of drugs, including their prescribing, dispensing and disposal, the draft says.
This focus of the NMP is part of the Health Ministry’s policy of reducing the country’s dependence on imported drugs.
"The development of the domestic pharmaceutical industry would lead to increased national self-sufficiency in pharmaceutical supplies and reduced excessive dependence on imports," says the draft.
"Generic substitution should be permitted and eventually legislated in order to improve affordability of medicines."
But cheaper drugs are not going to be on the shelves so soon, as the NMP is only now being finalised, after going through some nine drafts in the last 10 years or so.
The NMP aims at "securing the lowest available prices for products of defined specifications", especially for those under the National Essential Drugs List (NEDL), the draft says.
Health Ministry parliamentary secretary Datuk Lee Kah Choon said the NMP would also control the types of drugs coming into the country.
"As new drugs are being invented all the time, we have a problem of access.
"Pharmaceutical companies are always telling us what is the best drug to use.
"The policy can look into this and offer us options," he said.
Malaysian Pharmaceutical Society president John C.P. Chang said the NMP would encourage research into new products and ensure the quality of drugs and affordable prices.
"Our Government is very sensitive to over-pricing," he said.
"Although some studies show that generic drugs in Malaysia are expensive, others show that because the quality is high, the price is appropriate."
Under the NMP, the industry will be organised and regulated to create incentives and foster competition.
Baby died due to negligence
NST: KOTA BARU: A 30-year-old schoolteacher claimed he and his pregnant wife were subjected to a harrowing runaround at a hospital, leading to the death of their newborn baby boy last Friday.
A visibly upset Nordin Mohd Yaman told the New Straits Times yesterday his wife Suhaiza Mohd Lazim, 27, had been denied entry to the labour room at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
He took Suhaiza, who was in labour, to the hospital at 12am on Thursday.
To the couple’s dismay, a woman doctor in the labour room refused to admit Suhaiza although she was in great pain.
"The doctor instructed the nurse who accompanied us to take Suhaiza to another ward. The doctor did not explain her decision to us. She did not even look at my wife," Nordin said.
The couple then spent 45 minutes wandering around the hospital from one ward to another.
Nordin said the hospital did not have enough wheelchairs, so he and the nurse moved Suhaiza on a gurney.
When they finally found a doctor who would attend to his wife, he told the couple the baby was well on its way.
"The doctor told me the baby’s head was visible and my wife must be taken to the labour room immediately," Nordin said, and only then was Suhaiza admitted to the labour room.
The baby, the couple’s second child, died the following day.
Nordin lodged a police report here the same day, alleging negligence by the hospital.
The hospital’s acting director, Dr Zaidon Kamari, said the incident was under investigation.
A visibly upset Nordin Mohd Yaman told the New Straits Times yesterday his wife Suhaiza Mohd Lazim, 27, had been denied entry to the labour room at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia.
He took Suhaiza, who was in labour, to the hospital at 12am on Thursday.
To the couple’s dismay, a woman doctor in the labour room refused to admit Suhaiza although she was in great pain.
"The doctor instructed the nurse who accompanied us to take Suhaiza to another ward. The doctor did not explain her decision to us. She did not even look at my wife," Nordin said.
The couple then spent 45 minutes wandering around the hospital from one ward to another.
Nordin said the hospital did not have enough wheelchairs, so he and the nurse moved Suhaiza on a gurney.
When they finally found a doctor who would attend to his wife, he told the couple the baby was well on its way.
"The doctor told me the baby’s head was visible and my wife must be taken to the labour room immediately," Nordin said, and only then was Suhaiza admitted to the labour room.
The baby, the couple’s second child, died the following day.
Nordin lodged a police report here the same day, alleging negligence by the hospital.
The hospital’s acting director, Dr Zaidon Kamari, said the incident was under investigation.
Sponsorship for 50 medical, dentistry students yearly
NST: KUALA TERENGGANU: About 50 students will be sponsored by the State Government annually to attend medical and dentistry courses at five Indonesian universities.
The universities are Universitas Air Langga, Surabaya, Universitas Brawijaya, Mala- ng, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogjakarta, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung and Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan.
The universities are recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council and the Public Service Department.
The move was to ease the nationwide shortage of places for these two disciplines in local universities.
Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia and matriculation students can apply for these courses next month and applications will be processed by both the foundation and the five universities.
State Education, Higher Education, Science and Technology and Human Resources Committee chairman Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Awang said the universities were chosen for their academic reputation.
The universities are Universitas Air Langga, Surabaya, Universitas Brawijaya, Mala- ng, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogjakarta, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung and Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan.
The universities are recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council and the Public Service Department.
The move was to ease the nationwide shortage of places for these two disciplines in local universities.
Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia and matriculation students can apply for these courses next month and applications will be processed by both the foundation and the five universities.
State Education, Higher Education, Science and Technology and Human Resources Committee chairman Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Awang said the universities were chosen for their academic reputation.
Malaysia needs 90,000 nurses: inks MOU with Silliman U
Negros Chronicle: Malaysia announced its need of 90,000 staff nurses presently and 174,000 by the year 2020 if only to hit its ideal ratio of 1 nurse for every 200 Malaysian population.
In this connection, Silliman University (SU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Asian College of Nursing and Health (AC) based in Malaysia for a partnership that will involve training of student-nurses in Malaysia and member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
SU President Dr. Agustin Pulido and AC Co- President Datuk Muhamad Abdullah, on behalf of AC President Dato Dr. Affifudin Omar, formalized the agreement on April 11 at Silliman University in this city, enjoining both parties to assist in the development of high quality nurses for the public and private sectors of Malaysia and the ASEAN Region.
AC Co-President Datuk Muhamad Abdullah is the former Deputy Speaker of the Malaysian Parliament (Lower House) and President Dato Dr. Affifudin Omar is the former Deputy Finance Minister of the Government of Malaysia.
SUCN Dean Dr. Ma. Teresa Sy-Sinda said the MOU is geared toward improving the effectiveness and competence of would-be nurses through excellent quality education and clinical exposures in their professional growth and development.
A memorandum of agreement will be signed at a later date to spell out each institution's responsibilities and obligations under the partnership.
Malaysia has been reported to be experiencing a shortage of nurses. In a news item published in the March 10, 2006 issue of the Malaysian newspaper New Straits Times, Malaysian Health Minister Datuk Dr. Chua Soi Lek was quoted saying that the country is still short of 90,000 staff nurses and would need 174,000 by 2020 to achieve the 1:200 population ratio.
Silliman has been chosen for its high academic standards, having been designated by the Commission on Higher Education as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education. It is considered as among the best performing schools in the Philippines, in terms of performance in the Licensure Examination for Nurses, and is one of only two institutions in the country that offer a PhD Program in Nursing.
In this connection, Silliman University (SU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Asian College of Nursing and Health (AC) based in Malaysia for a partnership that will involve training of student-nurses in Malaysia and member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
SU President Dr. Agustin Pulido and AC Co- President Datuk Muhamad Abdullah, on behalf of AC President Dato Dr. Affifudin Omar, formalized the agreement on April 11 at Silliman University in this city, enjoining both parties to assist in the development of high quality nurses for the public and private sectors of Malaysia and the ASEAN Region.
AC Co-President Datuk Muhamad Abdullah is the former Deputy Speaker of the Malaysian Parliament (Lower House) and President Dato Dr. Affifudin Omar is the former Deputy Finance Minister of the Government of Malaysia.
SUCN Dean Dr. Ma. Teresa Sy-Sinda said the MOU is geared toward improving the effectiveness and competence of would-be nurses through excellent quality education and clinical exposures in their professional growth and development.
A memorandum of agreement will be signed at a later date to spell out each institution's responsibilities and obligations under the partnership.
Malaysia has been reported to be experiencing a shortage of nurses. In a news item published in the March 10, 2006 issue of the Malaysian newspaper New Straits Times, Malaysian Health Minister Datuk Dr. Chua Soi Lek was quoted saying that the country is still short of 90,000 staff nurses and would need 174,000 by 2020 to achieve the 1:200 population ratio.
Silliman has been chosen for its high academic standards, having been designated by the Commission on Higher Education as a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education. It is considered as among the best performing schools in the Philippines, in terms of performance in the Licensure Examination for Nurses, and is one of only two institutions in the country that offer a PhD Program in Nursing.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Contamination at water plant
Star: PETALING JAYA: Raw water contamination caused by leacheate from a landfill has once again caused water supply to thousands of households in in Selangor to be cut.
Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas) said high ammonia levels forced the Sungai Semenyih water treatment plant near Kajang to be shut down at 8.30am yesterday.
The affected areas were in Petaling, Hulu Langat, Kuala Langat and Sepang districts. The water treatment plant, operated by Konsortium Abass Sdn Bhd, also supplies water to Putrajaya.
According to Syabas, operations resumed at 4.30pm when the ammonia fell below the 1.2mg per litre danger level.
However, the reservoirs were expected to take five to eight hours to fill up. The situation should return to normal by this morning, said the water authority.
Yesterday's incident was the second raw water contamination case in Selangor this year.
The first incident occurred in February when high levels of ammonia in Sungai Selangor caused tap water in several areas in Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley to smell of faeces.
Syabas said in a statement yesterday that the high ammonia content was caused by leacheate from the Bukit Chembong landfill that is located near Bangi Lama.
It said the Department of Environment and the municipal council had been informed of the matter.
Syabas said checks by its executive chairman Tan Sri Rozali Ismail and staff at the landfill showed that on-going remedial works on a bund to hold back leacheate was not firm enough.
“We are worried that the situation may recur if there is heavy rain,” it said.
It added that Rozali had asked the municipal council to construct a stronger bund and take action against those who dumped rubbish in the landfill.
Syabas said its operation centres at its headquarters in Kuala Lumpur as well as the four districts were on standby and ready to dispatch tankers and static tanks with water to affected areas.
It said consumers could contact its call centre Puspel on its toll free line 1800-88-5252 or SMS to 39222 for more information.
Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas) said high ammonia levels forced the Sungai Semenyih water treatment plant near Kajang to be shut down at 8.30am yesterday.
The affected areas were in Petaling, Hulu Langat, Kuala Langat and Sepang districts. The water treatment plant, operated by Konsortium Abass Sdn Bhd, also supplies water to Putrajaya.
According to Syabas, operations resumed at 4.30pm when the ammonia fell below the 1.2mg per litre danger level.
However, the reservoirs were expected to take five to eight hours to fill up. The situation should return to normal by this morning, said the water authority.
Yesterday's incident was the second raw water contamination case in Selangor this year.
The first incident occurred in February when high levels of ammonia in Sungai Selangor caused tap water in several areas in Kuala Lumpur and the Klang Valley to smell of faeces.
Syabas said in a statement yesterday that the high ammonia content was caused by leacheate from the Bukit Chembong landfill that is located near Bangi Lama.
It said the Department of Environment and the municipal council had been informed of the matter.
Syabas said checks by its executive chairman Tan Sri Rozali Ismail and staff at the landfill showed that on-going remedial works on a bund to hold back leacheate was not firm enough.
“We are worried that the situation may recur if there is heavy rain,” it said.
It added that Rozali had asked the municipal council to construct a stronger bund and take action against those who dumped rubbish in the landfill.
Syabas said its operation centres at its headquarters in Kuala Lumpur as well as the four districts were on standby and ready to dispatch tankers and static tanks with water to affected areas.
It said consumers could contact its call centre Puspel on its toll free line 1800-88-5252 or SMS to 39222 for more information.
RM800 Mln For UM Faculty Of Medicine, Medical Centre Development
KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Bernama) -- The University of Malaya has been allocated RM800 million under the Ninth Malaysia Plan (9MP) to upgrade the infrastructure and the facilities of its Faculty of Medicine and Medical Centre.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Development) Prof Dr Muhamad Rasat Muhamad said the university was happy with the allocation though it had asked for more.
"But now we are given the amount, so we have to reorganise and strategise what to put it in for our project," he said, declining however to disclose the project.
Generally, the allocation was to improve the faculty of medicine, the UM Medical Centre and its services to achieve world-class standard, he told reporters after opening an Endoscopy Workshop with the theme "Frontiers of Therapeutic Endoscopy" jointly organised by the University of Malaya and the Malaysian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (MSGH).
He said the allocation would help to make UM's Faculty of Medicine the best medical school and the UMMC the best teaching hospital in the country.
"The thrust of the 9MP is human capital development. We want to produce good doctors and health-related professionals such as pharmacists, nurses and biomedicine scientists.
"In that sense, we need to improve the faculty of medicine but this cannot be done if the hospital component is also not at par with the teaching component. If we do this, the service to the public would be improved whilst taking advantage of the available equipment," he added.
Dean of the faculty, Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Amin Jalaludin, said the faculty would improve the gastrointestine tract service.
The faculty would also improve its Minimally Invasive Complex -- a one-stop centre for all seizures such as cardiac -- whereby the radiologists and cardiologists, neuro surgeons and gastroentrologists work as a team.
Mohd Amin said the university produced between 10 and 20 internal medicine positions annually and the other two universities, between 30 and 40 positions.
"Among these, they would come back for sub-specialisation in certain areas such as gastroentrology. At the same time, we are accepting people from other countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia to do a fellowship in the centre between one and two years," he said.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research and Development) Prof Dr Muhamad Rasat Muhamad said the university was happy with the allocation though it had asked for more.
"But now we are given the amount, so we have to reorganise and strategise what to put it in for our project," he said, declining however to disclose the project.
Generally, the allocation was to improve the faculty of medicine, the UM Medical Centre and its services to achieve world-class standard, he told reporters after opening an Endoscopy Workshop with the theme "Frontiers of Therapeutic Endoscopy" jointly organised by the University of Malaya and the Malaysian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (MSGH).
He said the allocation would help to make UM's Faculty of Medicine the best medical school and the UMMC the best teaching hospital in the country.
"The thrust of the 9MP is human capital development. We want to produce good doctors and health-related professionals such as pharmacists, nurses and biomedicine scientists.
"In that sense, we need to improve the faculty of medicine but this cannot be done if the hospital component is also not at par with the teaching component. If we do this, the service to the public would be improved whilst taking advantage of the available equipment," he added.
Dean of the faculty, Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Amin Jalaludin, said the faculty would improve the gastrointestine tract service.
The faculty would also improve its Minimally Invasive Complex -- a one-stop centre for all seizures such as cardiac -- whereby the radiologists and cardiologists, neuro surgeons and gastroentrologists work as a team.
Mohd Amin said the university produced between 10 and 20 internal medicine positions annually and the other two universities, between 30 and 40 positions.
"Among these, they would come back for sub-specialisation in certain areas such as gastroentrology. At the same time, we are accepting people from other countries such as the Philippines and Indonesia to do a fellowship in the centre between one and two years," he said.
Consumers In Kelantan Use Saccharin As Sugar Substitute
KOTA BAHARU, April 15 (Bernama) -- Some consumers in Kelantan are resorting to the use of "saccharin" as a sweetener to replace sugar following a shortage in the supply of the commodity in the state.
It is said that saccharin is 300 times sweeter than the normal sugar.
This has caused State Health Director, Datuk Dr Ahmad Razin Ahmad Maher to be concerned due to the side effects of consuming the stuff if taken excessively.
"We are concerned with the side effects of taking saccharin, like cancer," he told reporters after a briefing on management of school canteens here Saturday.
The function was attended by about 400 operators and food handlers of school canteens in the Kota Baharu district.
Also present was State Education Director Ismail Mohd Nor.
Dr Ahmad Razin said 11.35 kilogrammes of saccharin were seized by the department since January this year.
He said it was an offence under the Food Regulations 1985 for anyone to bring, sell saccharin without a licence from the Health Department adding that those caught were liable to a fine of RM5,000 or two years jail or both.
"So far, no one has been issued with the licence," he added.
It is said that saccharin is 300 times sweeter than the normal sugar.
This has caused State Health Director, Datuk Dr Ahmad Razin Ahmad Maher to be concerned due to the side effects of consuming the stuff if taken excessively.
"We are concerned with the side effects of taking saccharin, like cancer," he told reporters after a briefing on management of school canteens here Saturday.
The function was attended by about 400 operators and food handlers of school canteens in the Kota Baharu district.
Also present was State Education Director Ismail Mohd Nor.
Dr Ahmad Razin said 11.35 kilogrammes of saccharin were seized by the department since January this year.
He said it was an offence under the Food Regulations 1985 for anyone to bring, sell saccharin without a licence from the Health Department adding that those caught were liable to a fine of RM5,000 or two years jail or both.
"So far, no one has been issued with the licence," he added.
Professor Tells Endoscopists To Open Mind To Technology
KUALA LUMPUR, April 15 (Bernama) -- Endoscopists in the country have been advised to keep their mind open to the many new technologies in the field of gastroenterology.
Prof Anthony Axon from Leeds, United Kingdom, said endoscopists should, at the same time, avoid believing everything they read about the new technologies.
"You shouldn't dash and do it on your patients. Wait for results of controlled trials," said the president of the World Organisation of Digestive Endoscopy at an Endoscopy Workshop themed Frontiers of Therapeutic Endoscopy organised by the University of Malaya and the Malaysian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (MSGH), here Saturday.
This was because some of the technologies have yet to be proven safe while others might be too expensive to conduct, he said.
"It is important to do it safely and well," he told about 200 participants of the workshop.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which enables physicians to see inside the stomach and duodenum when diagnosing problems in the liver, gall bladder and bile duct, was sometimes very hard to do and many people have yet to understand how to use it, said Axon.
Gastroenterology was facing a total change with the introduction of new technologies every year, he said.
There is now technology that gives high resolution and magnification endoscopy, with 1.5x to 150x zoom with moveable lens, 850,000 megapixel resolution, technology that uses lights-tissue interaction, Autoflourescence Videography, Optical Coherence Tomography which is still in the infancy stage or the Confocal Laser Endoscopy which is still under study.
"Endoscopy is more interesting and demanding these days. There is equipment for specialised functions. Individual endoscopists must specialise as well," he said.
Prof Anthony Axon from Leeds, United Kingdom, said endoscopists should, at the same time, avoid believing everything they read about the new technologies.
"You shouldn't dash and do it on your patients. Wait for results of controlled trials," said the president of the World Organisation of Digestive Endoscopy at an Endoscopy Workshop themed Frontiers of Therapeutic Endoscopy organised by the University of Malaya and the Malaysian Society of Gastroenterology and Hepatology (MSGH), here Saturday.
This was because some of the technologies have yet to be proven safe while others might be too expensive to conduct, he said.
"It is important to do it safely and well," he told about 200 participants of the workshop.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which enables physicians to see inside the stomach and duodenum when diagnosing problems in the liver, gall bladder and bile duct, was sometimes very hard to do and many people have yet to understand how to use it, said Axon.
Gastroenterology was facing a total change with the introduction of new technologies every year, he said.
There is now technology that gives high resolution and magnification endoscopy, with 1.5x to 150x zoom with moveable lens, 850,000 megapixel resolution, technology that uses lights-tissue interaction, Autoflourescence Videography, Optical Coherence Tomography which is still in the infancy stage or the Confocal Laser Endoscopy which is still under study.
"Endoscopy is more interesting and demanding these days. There is equipment for specialised functions. Individual endoscopists must specialise as well," he said.
No Malaria Cases Among Foreign Workers In Tanjung Bungah
PENANG, April 15 (Bernama) -- No new Malaria cases are being reported among foreign workers in Taman Permai, Tanjung Bungah, which so far has seen eight cases since early this month.
Checks conducted by the State Health Department around the housing construction site found all 178 workers who underwent check-up were free from the disease.
The Northeast District Health Officer Dr Mohd Salleh Jais who headed the inspection round today with about 10 members said it was part of the efforts to keep in check malaria in the state.
The team has been conducting checks in the area since April 7 and will go on until no more reports of Malaria, he said when met here today.
Yesterday, the Health Ministry's Parliamentary Secretary Datuk Lee Kah Choon confirmed that eight suspected malaria cases were reported and all patients are being warded.
Lee said seven of the eight were illegal immigrants who were working at the site.
Checks conducted by the State Health Department around the housing construction site found all 178 workers who underwent check-up were free from the disease.
The Northeast District Health Officer Dr Mohd Salleh Jais who headed the inspection round today with about 10 members said it was part of the efforts to keep in check malaria in the state.
The team has been conducting checks in the area since April 7 and will go on until no more reports of Malaria, he said when met here today.
Yesterday, the Health Ministry's Parliamentary Secretary Datuk Lee Kah Choon confirmed that eight suspected malaria cases were reported and all patients are being warded.
Lee said seven of the eight were illegal immigrants who were working at the site.
Raising Quality In Healthcare
MELAKA, April 15 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's healthcare competencies are continuously improving through various internal quality assurance programmes (QAPs) such as clinical good practices and protocols.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said Saturday that so far 52 government hospitals and 16 private hospitals had gained accreditation from the Malaysian Society of Quality in Health (MSQH) which is a member of the International Society for Quality in Healthcare (ISQua), a body that oversees accreditation of healthcare facilities.
"Every year, organisers of some 30 regional and international health and medical meetings, conferences and exhibitions choose Malaysia as their preferred venue," he said at the 6th Melaka Twin Cities International Convention 2006 at the Melaka International Trade Centre, here.
The text of Dr Chua's speech was read out by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad. The theme for this year's convention is "Generating and Stimulating Health Services Excellence in Tourism Industry among Cities".
State Executive Councillor Datuk Wira Poh Ah Tiam represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam in officiating the convention.
Dr Chua said Malaysia would host the Federation of International Obstetrics and Gynaecology Conference in Kuala Lumpur in November, an event that was expected to draw about 15,000 people from around the world.
He said the ministry operated an extensive network of 127 government hospitals and more than 3,000 primary healthcare facilities of various types to serve the population.
"We only charge a fee of 30 US cents or RM1 for consultation by doctor with supply of drugs at our government outpatient primary care clinics.
"As a result of the low treatment fees, the government subsidises about 98 per cent of healthcare cost in the public healthcare facilities," he said.
Dr Chua said that in the private sector, there were 222 private hospitals and maternity homes plus some 8,000 medical and dental clinics.
Health Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek said Saturday that so far 52 government hospitals and 16 private hospitals had gained accreditation from the Malaysian Society of Quality in Health (MSQH) which is a member of the International Society for Quality in Healthcare (ISQua), a body that oversees accreditation of healthcare facilities.
"Every year, organisers of some 30 regional and international health and medical meetings, conferences and exhibitions choose Malaysia as their preferred venue," he said at the 6th Melaka Twin Cities International Convention 2006 at the Melaka International Trade Centre, here.
The text of Dr Chua's speech was read out by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad. The theme for this year's convention is "Generating and Stimulating Health Services Excellence in Tourism Industry among Cities".
State Executive Councillor Datuk Wira Poh Ah Tiam represented Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam in officiating the convention.
Dr Chua said Malaysia would host the Federation of International Obstetrics and Gynaecology Conference in Kuala Lumpur in November, an event that was expected to draw about 15,000 people from around the world.
He said the ministry operated an extensive network of 127 government hospitals and more than 3,000 primary healthcare facilities of various types to serve the population.
"We only charge a fee of 30 US cents or RM1 for consultation by doctor with supply of drugs at our government outpatient primary care clinics.
"As a result of the low treatment fees, the government subsidises about 98 per cent of healthcare cost in the public healthcare facilities," he said.
Dr Chua said that in the private sector, there were 222 private hospitals and maternity homes plus some 8,000 medical and dental clinics.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Two with tumours on faces may get check-ups in China
Star: ALOR STAR: Two people with large tumours on their faces may be flying off to China within the next two weeks for preliminary medical checks and possible reconstructive surgery.
A team of 14 specialists has been formed at the Fuda Cancer Hospital in Guangzhou to study the condition of 18-year-old Hong Siew Hui and 25-year-old Tan Kia Khim, whose faces are distorted by large growths.
Hong has just finished her SPM while Tan is working as a coffeeshop assistant.
Kedah Chinese Assembly Hall (KCAH) secretary Cheng Lai Hock said the hospital's principal Prof Xu Kecheng started taking a special interest in Hong’s case after an article written about her was sent to him.
Hong had attracted media attention after the SPM results came out.
“Prof Xu personally came to Alor Star on April 4 to visit the girl.
“When Tan heard that the professor was in town, he also went to visit him at the girl’s house,” he said, adding that Prof Xu also gave a talk on cancer and tumour treatment to KCAH members.
Prof Xu informed Cheng that he had already lined up a team of 14 specialists to study Hong’s and Tan’s condition and advised them on possible options.
“We hope they will be treated, as it will give a ray of hope to others who suffer from similar growths,” he said.
Cheng hoped the RM200,000 required for their treatment could be collected.
The KCAH had launched a donation campaign last Saturday.
“The response towards our donation campaign has been overwhelming. So far, more than RM40,000 has been deposited directly into our medical aid bank account.
“We have yet to total up the amount collected by the six Chinese dailies that are actively participating in this donation drive,” he said.
Cheng said only one parent would be allowed to follow each patient if needed, to minimise costs.
“Even KCAH members will not be accompanying them. If we have to accompany them, we will use our own money for the trip,” he said.
A team of 14 specialists has been formed at the Fuda Cancer Hospital in Guangzhou to study the condition of 18-year-old Hong Siew Hui and 25-year-old Tan Kia Khim, whose faces are distorted by large growths.
Hong has just finished her SPM while Tan is working as a coffeeshop assistant.
Kedah Chinese Assembly Hall (KCAH) secretary Cheng Lai Hock said the hospital's principal Prof Xu Kecheng started taking a special interest in Hong’s case after an article written about her was sent to him.
Hong had attracted media attention after the SPM results came out.
“Prof Xu personally came to Alor Star on April 4 to visit the girl.
“When Tan heard that the professor was in town, he also went to visit him at the girl’s house,” he said, adding that Prof Xu also gave a talk on cancer and tumour treatment to KCAH members.
Prof Xu informed Cheng that he had already lined up a team of 14 specialists to study Hong’s and Tan’s condition and advised them on possible options.
“We hope they will be treated, as it will give a ray of hope to others who suffer from similar growths,” he said.
Cheng hoped the RM200,000 required for their treatment could be collected.
The KCAH had launched a donation campaign last Saturday.
“The response towards our donation campaign has been overwhelming. So far, more than RM40,000 has been deposited directly into our medical aid bank account.
“We have yet to total up the amount collected by the six Chinese dailies that are actively participating in this donation drive,” he said.
Cheng said only one parent would be allowed to follow each patient if needed, to minimise costs.
“Even KCAH members will not be accompanying them. If we have to accompany them, we will use our own money for the trip,” he said.
Soon, graphic warning labels for cigarette packets
Star: PENANG: Cigarette packets may look like miniature Tak Nak (Say “No”) posters once the Tobacco Control Bill is passed.
Health Ministry parliamentary secretary Datuk Lee Kah Choon said graphic deterrents on cigarette packets were necessary as the Merokok Membahayakan Kesihatan (Smoking Endangers Health) warning introduced in 1977 on packets had proved ineffective.
“Six prototypes of the most-effective graphic warning labels will be submitted with the draft of the Bill,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters yesterday after launching Universiti Sains Malaysia's Innovative Design for Health exhibition at the USM ABN-AMRO Arts and Cultural Centre.
Lee said warning labels with photos or graphics on cigarette packets were compulsory under the World Health Organisation's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, ratified by Malaysia in September.
“More than 10 countries in the world, including Thailand and Singapore, have made graphic warning labels compulsory,” he said.
He said placing a total ban on cigarette sales was difficult, and the only country in the world that had done that was Bhutan, which had a low ratio of smokers.
Graphic warning labels would also counter the current trend among tobacco firms to sell limited-edition cigarettes in attractive packaging, he said.
USM deputy vice-chancellor (research and innovation) Datuk Prof Muhammad Idiris Saleh said the university was studying how effective cigarette packet designs were in affecting a smoker's emotions under a grant from the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in the United States.
Health Ministry parliamentary secretary Datuk Lee Kah Choon said graphic deterrents on cigarette packets were necessary as the Merokok Membahayakan Kesihatan (Smoking Endangers Health) warning introduced in 1977 on packets had proved ineffective.
“Six prototypes of the most-effective graphic warning labels will be submitted with the draft of the Bill,” he said.
He was speaking to reporters yesterday after launching Universiti Sains Malaysia's Innovative Design for Health exhibition at the USM ABN-AMRO Arts and Cultural Centre.
Lee said warning labels with photos or graphics on cigarette packets were compulsory under the World Health Organisation's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, ratified by Malaysia in September.
“More than 10 countries in the world, including Thailand and Singapore, have made graphic warning labels compulsory,” he said.
He said placing a total ban on cigarette sales was difficult, and the only country in the world that had done that was Bhutan, which had a low ratio of smokers.
Graphic warning labels would also counter the current trend among tobacco firms to sell limited-edition cigarettes in attractive packaging, he said.
USM deputy vice-chancellor (research and innovation) Datuk Prof Muhammad Idiris Saleh said the university was studying how effective cigarette packet designs were in affecting a smoker's emotions under a grant from the Roswell Park Cancer Institute in the United States.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Doctors agree to return home
NST: PUTRAJAYA: For years, more than 100 Malaysian doctors educated at government cost in Ireland and England had refused to return, citing poor prospects here.
Two weeks ago, the situation changed, with many agreeing to fly back for good.
All it took was a talk with Health director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican, who convinced them that the going would be good for them here.
He told them the Malaysian healthcare system was being reformed to emphasise sub-speciality services.
"I gave them the assurance that they will not face problems getting placements and recognition of training received in Dublin and the United Kingdom," he told the New Straits Times.
But there is a condition: Some will only return after completing training to become specialists and sub-specialists.
The decision augurs well for medical services in Malaysia as many of those working there had become hospital heads of department.
"Some of them have even been given the honour of setting up units in hospitals. Because of this, they have the experience to contribute towards the expansion of sub-speciality services in Malaysia," he said.
Dr Ismail said he also met some 200 medical students during the week-long visit to impress upon them the need to return to Malaysia and contribute to the nation.
"I talked to them about the Malaysian healthcare system and reform, on career prospects and development in the Health Ministry and in the country."
He said many were unaware of what Malaysia had to offer in terms of career advancement.
The NST highlighted the problem on Nov 6 last year, stating that as many as 100 Malaysians educated in Ireland at a cost of between RM60 million and RM100 million had turned their backs on the country.
It was also reported that these doctors were encouraging other Malaysian students not to return home but to make a living in Europe’s fastest growing economy.
These 100 doctors had been mainly doing locum for between one and 11 years.
"Many have been misinformed about the availability of postgraduate and sub-speciality training programmes in Malaysia," he said.
Dr Ismail said he told the doctors that they should get permission from their sponsors to stay on to become specialists.
"Normally if they are given a place to specialise or sub-specialise in areas where there is a shortage of doctors in Malaysia, we will allow them to continue."
On the issue of recognition of Membership of the Royal College of Physicians, United Kingdom (MRCP) and MRCOG (obstetrics and gynaecology) and qualifications recognised in the United Kingdom, he said Malaysia recognised them.
There are 1,099 Malaysians students studying in Ireland, of whom 968 are studying medicine. Of the 968, 336 are Public Service Department scholars, 389 are under Mara scholarships and loans, 13 are under Petronas and the rest are private students.
Two weeks ago, the situation changed, with many agreeing to fly back for good.
All it took was a talk with Health director-general Datuk Dr Ismail Merican, who convinced them that the going would be good for them here.
He told them the Malaysian healthcare system was being reformed to emphasise sub-speciality services.
"I gave them the assurance that they will not face problems getting placements and recognition of training received in Dublin and the United Kingdom," he told the New Straits Times.
But there is a condition: Some will only return after completing training to become specialists and sub-specialists.
The decision augurs well for medical services in Malaysia as many of those working there had become hospital heads of department.
"Some of them have even been given the honour of setting up units in hospitals. Because of this, they have the experience to contribute towards the expansion of sub-speciality services in Malaysia," he said.
Dr Ismail said he also met some 200 medical students during the week-long visit to impress upon them the need to return to Malaysia and contribute to the nation.
"I talked to them about the Malaysian healthcare system and reform, on career prospects and development in the Health Ministry and in the country."
He said many were unaware of what Malaysia had to offer in terms of career advancement.
The NST highlighted the problem on Nov 6 last year, stating that as many as 100 Malaysians educated in Ireland at a cost of between RM60 million and RM100 million had turned their backs on the country.
It was also reported that these doctors were encouraging other Malaysian students not to return home but to make a living in Europe’s fastest growing economy.
These 100 doctors had been mainly doing locum for between one and 11 years.
"Many have been misinformed about the availability of postgraduate and sub-speciality training programmes in Malaysia," he said.
Dr Ismail said he told the doctors that they should get permission from their sponsors to stay on to become specialists.
"Normally if they are given a place to specialise or sub-specialise in areas where there is a shortage of doctors in Malaysia, we will allow them to continue."
On the issue of recognition of Membership of the Royal College of Physicians, United Kingdom (MRCP) and MRCOG (obstetrics and gynaecology) and qualifications recognised in the United Kingdom, he said Malaysia recognised them.
There are 1,099 Malaysians students studying in Ireland, of whom 968 are studying medicine. Of the 968, 336 are Public Service Department scholars, 389 are under Mara scholarships and loans, 13 are under Petronas and the rest are private students.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Perak Can Lead In Biotechnology Promotion
IPOH, April 13 (Bernama) -- Perak, rich in biodiversity, can be the prime mover in the push towards the development of the country's biotechnology industry.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Tajol Rosli Ghazali said with its existing resources and the infrastructure well in place, Perak would be able to compete with other states in Malaysia to attract local and foreign investors.
The Perak government had identified three main areas in Belum, Manjung and Kampar to be turned into research and development (R&D) centres to boost the development of the industry in the state, he said in reply to Datuk Dr Ho Wai Cheong (BN-Teja) at the State Legislative Assembly here Thursday.
Tajol Rosli said several areas for biotechnology-based industries like the Perak High-Tech Park in Sungkai and the Bio-Valley in Kampar had been developed complete with the required infrastructure in view of the availability of the raw materials needed for the industry there.
Besides, a Biotechnology Development Committee had been set up to draw up the strategies for the industry's development in Perak, he said.
"The state government also gives various incentives like low premium on land provided and rental for R&D premises and allow the capitalisation of industrial lands or factories for potential and viable bio-technology projects," he said.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Tajol Rosli Ghazali said with its existing resources and the infrastructure well in place, Perak would be able to compete with other states in Malaysia to attract local and foreign investors.
The Perak government had identified three main areas in Belum, Manjung and Kampar to be turned into research and development (R&D) centres to boost the development of the industry in the state, he said in reply to Datuk Dr Ho Wai Cheong (BN-Teja) at the State Legislative Assembly here Thursday.
Tajol Rosli said several areas for biotechnology-based industries like the Perak High-Tech Park in Sungkai and the Bio-Valley in Kampar had been developed complete with the required infrastructure in view of the availability of the raw materials needed for the industry there.
Besides, a Biotechnology Development Committee had been set up to draw up the strategies for the industry's development in Perak, he said.
"The state government also gives various incentives like low premium on land provided and rental for R&D premises and allow the capitalisation of industrial lands or factories for potential and viable bio-technology projects," he said.
Biotech sector draws foreign interest
The Star Several international companies have shown interest in Malaysia’s biotechnology sector.
These companies – from the United States, Europe, South Korea and Taiwan – are keen to share their technology, do research and development (R&D) as well as manufacture in Malaysia.
One of these firms, Burrill & Company, a life sciences merchant bank, has singled out Malaysia as one of the countries, besides China and India, that offers good prospects for biotechnology initiatives, including in health care.
These companies took part in the just-concluded Bio Chicago 2006 international biotechnology convention, which was attended by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jamaludin Jarjis and a 150-member Malaysian delegation.
The event, which ended yesterday, was the world’s largest gathering of biotechnology industry players, with 20,000 participants and 1,600 exhibitors.
It was organised by the Biotechnology International Organisation.
“The feeling is that, because of the high cost of producing drugs, the big pharmaceutical companies have no choice but to outsource their research, clinical trials, production and even distribution,” said Dr Jamaludin.
Malaysia would compete with other countries through its strengths in human capital, good infrastructure and intellectual property (IP) protection, he told reporters after opening a Malaysia Pavilion at the McCormick Place Convention Centre here on Monday.
Dr Jamaludin said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi wanted the IP laws to be looked into and his ministry was now working with the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to see how this could be further strengthened.
These companies – from the United States, Europe, South Korea and Taiwan – are keen to share their technology, do research and development (R&D) as well as manufacture in Malaysia.
One of these firms, Burrill & Company, a life sciences merchant bank, has singled out Malaysia as one of the countries, besides China and India, that offers good prospects for biotechnology initiatives, including in health care.
These companies took part in the just-concluded Bio Chicago 2006 international biotechnology convention, which was attended by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jamaludin Jarjis and a 150-member Malaysian delegation.
The event, which ended yesterday, was the world’s largest gathering of biotechnology industry players, with 20,000 participants and 1,600 exhibitors.
It was organised by the Biotechnology International Organisation.
“The feeling is that, because of the high cost of producing drugs, the big pharmaceutical companies have no choice but to outsource their research, clinical trials, production and even distribution,” said Dr Jamaludin.
Malaysia would compete with other countries through its strengths in human capital, good infrastructure and intellectual property (IP) protection, he told reporters after opening a Malaysia Pavilion at the McCormick Place Convention Centre here on Monday.
Dr Jamaludin said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi wanted the IP laws to be looked into and his ministry was now working with the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry to see how this could be further strengthened.
Sarawak wants HFM to be notifable disease
Star: KUCHING: Sarawak wants hand, foot and mouth (HFM) disease to be added to the Health Ministry’s list of notifiable communal diseases.
Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam said he had made the request to Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek.
He said once listed, private doctors would have to notify the health authorities if they detected the disease. There are now 20 diseases on the list.
“The worst of the HFM disease is definitely over now,” he told reporters yesterday.
However, Dr Chan said, the state authorities would not declare that the outbreak was over yet as the number of new cases reported daily was still higher than the normal average of 36 cases weekly, state-wide.
“There were 45 new cases today (yesterday) and nine new admissions,” he added.
This brought the total this year to 8,394 cases, with 1,304 admitted to hospitals.
Dr Chan said 34 children were still warded, including 10 in Bintulu hospital.
He said 67 kindergartens were checked on Monday, and no new cases were found.
Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam said he had made the request to Minister Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek.
He said once listed, private doctors would have to notify the health authorities if they detected the disease. There are now 20 diseases on the list.
“The worst of the HFM disease is definitely over now,” he told reporters yesterday.
However, Dr Chan said, the state authorities would not declare that the outbreak was over yet as the number of new cases reported daily was still higher than the normal average of 36 cases weekly, state-wide.
“There were 45 new cases today (yesterday) and nine new admissions,” he added.
This brought the total this year to 8,394 cases, with 1,304 admitted to hospitals.
Dr Chan said 34 children were still warded, including 10 in Bintulu hospital.
He said 67 kindergartens were checked on Monday, and no new cases were found.
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