BELADIN – The Community Diabetes Screening Program (War on Sugar) held at the Beladin Health Clinic has highlighted the importance of collaboration between health authorities and local community leaders in tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Organised by the Beladin Clinic Advisory Panel, the programme demonstrated how active involvement of village heads and grassroots communities can strengthen efforts to prevent diabetes and promote healthier lifestyles.
Dr. Syamsuzzaman Aniq Saiful Bahrin, Medical Officer at Beladin Clinic, stressed that community support is vital to ensuring health messages reach the grassroots.
“Preventive measures are only effective when the community understands the risks of excessive sugar intake and acts collectively to manage it,” he said at the closing ceremony on Saturday.
He urged residents to adopt healthy eating practices as part of their daily culture, reminding them that diabetes is not just a disease but a cause of serious complications if left unchecked.
Rosli Uji, Pusa District Pemanca, praised the involvement of village heads, noting that their participation has been a catalyst for wider dissemination of health information.
“Information obtained through such programs should be shared and extended to family members and the community. Health is a shared responsibility,” he said.
He also advised residents to seek medical attention immediately if early signs of health problems appear, stressing that timely action can prevent chronic complications.
The programme was attended by local leaders including Naali Aie, Head of Kampung Tengah Beladin; Mustapha Sili, Head of Kampung Hulu Beladin; and Awang Subhi Awang Halil, Head of Kampung Hilir Beladin. Their presence reinforced the strong partnership between the clinic and the community.
The War on Sugar initiative is expected to foster healthier lifestyles among Beladin residents, contributing to the long-term reduction of diabetes cases and strengthening community resilience against NCDs.
