KUCHING — The Together For Health: Community Health Carnival organised by the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Kuching Branch in collaboration with Timberland Medical Centre has successfully attracted more than 300 participants at the SUPP Headquarters, Jalan Tan Sri Ong Kee Hui today.
The event, which ran from 9.00am to 4.00pm, offered 23 types of free health screenings, medical consultations, health talks, and fun family activities, promoting the importance of preventive care and community wellness.
The Guest of Honour, Deputy Premier of Sarawak and Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, YB Datuk Amar Professor Dr. Sim Kui Hian, officiated the event by cutting the ribbon alongside Cr. Nicholas Wung Duk Ying, SUPP Kuching Branch Youth Chairman, and Dr. Kelvin Ch’ng Boon Hong, CEO of Timberland Medical Centre, represented by Mr. Tony Ngu, Support Service Senior Manager.
In his opening speech, Dr. Sim commended the organisers for supporting Sarawak’s community health goals and aligning with the Federal Government’s Belanjawan Rakyat 2026, which saw an additional RM1.2 billion allocated to the national health budget, bringing it to RM46.5 billion.
“Preventive health is everyone’s responsibility. By coming together as a community, we can help reduce health risks and promote a healthier Sarawak,” said Dr. Sim.
Dr Sim expressed his gratitude to all healthcare frontliners — doctors, nurses, and medical staff — who continue to serve tirelessly, even during festive seasons and public holidays.
“Both the federal and state governments must come together to formulate a concrete plan to fund and fill the 11,000 posts needed in Sarawak’s hospitals,” he added.
Co-Organising Chairman Nicholas Wung said the carnival’s strong turnout showed the public’s increasing awareness of the importance of early detection and preventive care.
“This event is free for all and provides a chance for those who may not often go for medical check-ups to receive valuable health assessments,” he said.
Participants benefited from a wide range of services, including dental and oral examinations, eye tests, BMI and blood pressure checks, cholesterol and glucose monitoring, bone density and breast screening, HPV testing, and hearing assessments.
The event also featured dietitian consultations, wealth and health planning services, and information booths from partner agencies including LPPKN, EPF, the Department of Community Welfare Sarawak, Yakult, and 20dB Therapy Tree.
Adding to the lively atmosphere were the Viatris Mini Heart Tour, Yakult engagement sessions, kids’ colouring contest, senior fitness dances, and carnival games. Food trucks and giveaways made the event even more family-friendly.
A series of educational talks and sharing sessions were also held, covering topics such as breast cancer awareness, medicine disposal, mental health, nutrition, and insurance awareness. Among the presenters were Dr. Chai Sing Ling, Dr. Adibah Binti Ali, Dr. Chhoa Keng Hong, and S.C.A.N. mental health representatives.
During his speech, Nicholas also reflected on a recent tragic case in Samarahan involving a four-year-old child who lost his life due to influenza complications, stressing the urgency of early detection and health education.
“This heartbreaking case reminds us why free screenings like these are vital — early action can save lives,” he said.
The organisers expressed their gratitude to all partners, volunteers, and the public for making the event a success.
“We are proud to see so many Sarawakians come together for health. This is what community spirit looks like,” Nicholas added.
The Together for Health carnival concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and certificates of appreciation to participating partners, symbolising unity and shared responsibility in building a healthier community.