SIBU: In an effort to promote a health-conscious lifestyle and raise awareness about eye health, a successful public talk titled “Safeguarding the Windows to the Soul: Secrets to Protecting Your Eyes” was held at Plux Incubation Hub in Sibu General Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCCI) recently.
The event was organised by the Plux Incubation Hub Committee and co-hosted by Junior Chamber International (JCI) Mandarin Sibu.
Chairperson of the organising committee, Ervina Ho highlighted the growing challenges of maintaining healthy eyes in the modern era, where prolonged use of electronic devices and exposure to various light sources are common.
She said the primary goal of the event was to guide the public in cultivating proper eye habits for the preservation of eye health.
The public talk was conducted by vice president of the Sarawak Optical Traders Association (SOTA), Simon Tiong Yong Yee – a certified senior optometrist, and the founder of Elite Optometry Vision Care Group and Eyevue Optometrist here.
Tiong, an esteemed expert in the field, delivered an engaging and comprehensive presentation, emphasising the pivotal role of adopting correct eye care practices in maintaining optimal vision.
In today’s modern lifestyle, characterised by prolonged screen time, indoor environments, and varying light conditions, he pointed out maintaining healthy eyes requires diligence.
He said when using electronic devices, maintaining a suitable distance between the screen and the eyes is essential.
To mitigate strain, he said smartphones and computer screens should be positioned around 35-45 centimetres away.
Adhering to the 20-20-20 (Scheduled Eyebreaks) rule can help alleviate eye fatigue, he said, adding for every 20 minutes of screen use, one should divert gaze to an object at least 20 feet (six metres) away for 20 seconds, then resume.
This practice, according to him, promotes eye comfort during work, study, or entertainment.
He said adequate natural or appropriate lighting is crucial for reading or near work, and to avoid overly dim or excessively bright environments to reduce eye strain. When studying or working, it is recommended to use a desk lamp to illuminate reading materials.
Daily eye muscle exercises, including clockwise and anticlockwise eye rolling for 30 cycles, and eye massages with ring fingers, are highly recommended, he said.
These practices stimulate blood circulation, alleviate fatigue, and potentially reduce concerns like dark circles.
Adding on, he said nourishing the eyes involves consuming foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc. Optimal choices include fish, leafy greens, and nuts. Foods containing lutein and zeaxanthin, found in green and orange-hued fruits and vegetables respectively, also contribute to eye health.
On other guidelines, he said wearing sunglasses with UV protection during outdoor activities is really important for everyone.
He reasoned that this is because UV protection sunglasses or shade can shield human eyes from harmful rays no matter during work or travelling outdoor.
He stated that this practice can help to minimise potential damage to the eyes and reduce the risk from getting cataract, pterygium and other eye-related complications.
Besides, he also enlightenned that regular visits to eye specialists or certified optometrists is highly recommended for every individual as this practice can facilitate the early detection and management of vision-related issue.
“We must always remember that prevention is better than cure.
“For individuals in need of vision correction, it is crucial to use glasses or contact lenses that are customized to their specific needs. This practice is essential because the right optical devices can address an individual’s refractive error, resulting in clear and vivid vision.
“It’s important to avoid using eyewear intended for others, as prescriptions differ among individuals,” he said.
Apart from that, he also touched on adequate sleep, ideally lasting six to eight hours, is strongly recommended for everyone.
This duration, he said, permits the eyes to rejuvenate, lessening overall fatigue and promoting comprehensive bodily revitalisation. Furthermore, sufficient quality sleep contributes to the body’s detoxification processes and helps maintain optimal performance in work or study endeavours.
Suming up that nurturing eye health involves prudent device usage, healthy eye habits, and suitable viewing distances, he stated that by following these principles, individuals can mitigate eye strain, prevent vision problems, and maintain ocular health.
Tiong also emphasised the link between eye care and overall health, underscoring the importance of adopting good eye habits for clear vision.
He urged individuals with vision concerns to consult professional eye specialists or certified optometrists promptly.
Stressing that prevention outweighs treatment for eye conditions, Tiong encouraged parents to teach proper eye protection measures to their children from an early age, reducing the risk of future visual impairments.
Meanwhile, president of JCI Mandarin Sibu, Boston Ho pointed out that the event not only disseminated valuable insights into eye health but also underscored JCI Mandarin Sibu’s commitment to public well-being.
He stated the public talk is expected to encourage greater participation in mental health advocacy, as individuals unite to protect the “Windows to Their Souls.”
He said JCI Mandarin Sibu, an organisation dedicated to business networking, self-development, and community service, regularly hosts workshops to enhance the skills of young individuals.
In this connection, he invites individuals, aged between 18 and 40, to explore the organisation’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/JCIMandarinSibu or contact Gary Ling, the general secretary of the organisation, at 0111-988 1881 for further information.
