IPOH: The Social Security Organisation's (PERKESO) Neuro-Robotic and Cybernetics Rehabilitation Centre in Meru Raya is now known as the Sultan Nazrin Shah PERKESO Rehabilitation Centre.
The RM654mil centre was launched by Perak Ruler Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah on Tuesday (June 16).
The centre is said to be the largest in Southeast Asia and features specialised robotic therapy suites, a neuro-robotic gym and a dedicated cybernetics research centre, which could serve up to 700 patients daily.
Cybernetics is an advanced field of technology that integrates humans, robots, and information systems.
In his opening address, Sultan Nazrin said the centre reflects a fundamental shift in the nation's thinking and approach to rehabilitation.
"It embodies the nation’s aspiration to advanced, sophisticated, and technology-driven rehabilitation services, while remaining firmly grounded in the values of humanity and compassion.
"This vision reflects the government's commitment to the welfare of its people, particularly the nation's workforce," he said.
Sultan Nazrin said it is a collective obligation and humanitarian duty to assist those who face life's trials and hardships.
"The progress of a nation should not be measured solely by the height of its skyscrapers, the sprawling networks of flyovers, the scale of its ports and airports, or the strength of its economic growth.
"True progress is reflected in a nation's ability and determination to uphold human dignity, support the vulnerable, and provide a second chance to those affected by illness, injury or disability through meaningful social programmes," he said.
"The spirit of humanity and compassion must be the driving force behind this modern and technologically advanced rehabilitation centre.
"It should offer renewed hope to patients and their families, inspire confidence that injury is not the end of a meaningful life, and reinforce the belief that, with appropriate treatment, suitable technology and an unwavering spirit, it is possible to rise again," he added.
Present included Raja Muda Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa and Raja DiHilir Perak Raja Iskandar Dzulkarnain Idris Shah.
Also present were Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan and state executive council members.
