KOTA KINABALU: Kidney diseases continue to affect families in Sabah, says Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun.
The Deputy Chief Minister II said this is why it is important for everyone to take better care of their health, especially by being mindful of what they eat, adding that many serious illnesses could be prevented if people paid closer attention to their daily lifestyle and eating habits.
He said health should not only become a concern when one falls sick but must be looked after early through better awareness, self-discipline and healthier food choices.
While speaking at the Sabah Kidney Foundation Hari Raya celebration, Masidi, who is also State Finance Minister, announced a special government assistance of RM100,000 for the
Foundation to support its efforts in helping kidney patients.
He said the aid would be given in two stages, with RM50,000 to be disbursed first, while the remaining RM50,000 would be released once the foundation shows good progress in carrying out its work.
He stressed that kidney disease should not be taken lightly, as many patients still depend on haemodialysis treatment to survive.
“Sabah currently has about 460 haemodialysis machines in public hospitals serving around 2,400 patients, meaning one machine is shared by about five patients,” said Masidi.
According to him, the figure reflects not only a strain on healthcare services but also the burden faced by patients, especially those who have to travel far for treatment.
He called on the Sabah Kidney Foundation to be more proactive and strategic in expanding haemodialysis services to areas still lacking such facilities and stressed the importance of integrity, accountability and transparency in ensuring that every contribution truly benefited those in need.
