KUCHING: The Sarawak government has approved the establishment of an interventional radiology service at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) that offers effective stroke treatment.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this approval includes funding for essential equipment such as catheters that will enable specialists to perform complex procedures.
“In Sarawak alone, we encounter about 1,000 stroke cases annually.
“With the expansion of these services, we are positioned to save up to 500 lives each year through effective stroke treatment,” he said.
He said this in his text of speech read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian during the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Malaysian Interventional Radiology Association 2024 (MYSIR) here today (Oct 18).
Abang Johari added that the Sarawak government is committed to advocating for thrombectomy services as part of the state’s efforts to improve healthcare for the people of Sarawak.
“This is not merely a technical achievement but a step forward in ensuring that every corner of our region has access to advanced, high-quality healthcare.
“It is a reminder of the responsibility we carry, not just to push the boundaries of medicine but to make sure that these breakthroughs are accessible to everyone, especially in regions where healthcare services may be more challenging to deliver,” he added.
Also present were the state deputy director of Health Sarawak (Medical) Dr Azlee Ayob, Malaysian Interventional Radiology Association president Dr Naveen Rajadurai and MYSIR organising chairperson Dr Dhayal Balakrishnan.
