Jenddy (centre)
KOTA KINABALU: The government is committed to seeing that Sabah has its own national heart center—an institution that will serve as the foundation for heart health in our state and provide specialized care to all who need it.
Minister of Community Development and People’s Well-being, Datuk James Ratib said, however, establishing such a center will mean more than just a building.
“It will symbolize our dedication to every patient’s right to accessible and high-quality healthcare, right here in Sabah.
Towards that end, I encourage you to continue your support for the Society for the Sabah (S.O.S.) Heart Fund, whether through donations, volunteer efforts, or simply spreading the word.
“Each act of support strengthens the foundation’s mission and brings us closer to the day when every Sabahan can access the heart health services they need,” he said.
He added that this dream, a national heart center for Sabah, is one he is determined to realize within his tenure, and the support he received thus far is part of that journey.
James, who was represented by his Political Secretary Jenddy Sanggau, was speaking at the officiating of the Sabah Heart Fund Open Day 2024 in Conjunction with the State Level Welfare Month 2024 that was held here on Saturday.
“It is an honour for me to stand here at the S.O.S. Heart Fund Open Day 2024, celebrating an organization that has changed lives and provided hope to hundreds of people in Sabah.
“Since its humble beginnings in 1981, the Society for the Sabah Heart Fund has become a lifeline for so many.
“Today, we celebrate the remarkable fact that 727 patients have been given a second chance through this organization.
“Each life transformed speaks to the dedication, compassion, and resilience of this team. The impact of the S.O.S. Heart Fund on Sabah cannot be overstated,” he said.
According to James, it is a testament to the commitment of people like Datuk Eva and her team, who have devoted themselves to ensuring that our community receives the critical heart care it deserves.
In remote areas and rural communities, he said, families who once faced unimaginable burdens now have hope, knowing that there is a path to lifesaving treatment and recovery.
“This legacy of care and compassion reminds us all of the importance of accessible healthcare.
“May this event inspire continued dedication to the mission of this incredible organization and may it bring us all one step closer to a healthier, stronger Sabah,” he said.
About the celebration, the theme “Use Heart For Action” was taken from the official World Heart Day 2024 theme, where the World Heart Federation chooses a new theme each year to encourage people to take action to protect their heart health.
The 2024 theme emphasizes that small lifestyle changes can lead to significant improvements in heart health.
Objective of the Society for the Sabah Heart Fund in organizing the event “Sabah Heart Fund Open Day” was to welcome the public to visit its office, where the society has been operating.
The event aims to invite the State Minister of Community Development and People’s Wellbeing of Sabah to pay the SOS Heart Fund a visit at its small and humble office in conjunction with the Sabah Welfare Month Celebration.
The event also serves as a celebration of all the ex-patients—those who have successfully undergone heart surgery through the society’s program.
“We will provide them with an opportunity to share their personal stories and experiences.
Furthermore, the society will host a brief talk on heart health, aimed at raising awareness and sharing valuable knowledge with attendees,” it stated.
Also present, President of the S.O.S. Heart Fund Datuk Eva Susau, Sabah State General Welfare Service Director cum MPMS Management Chairman Jais Bin Asri, Permanent Secretary of Management represents SUT KPMKR, Alijah Bte. Ismail, among others.
