MIRI: Another village dental adoption programme was launched on Sunday to provide dental healthcare services to communities living far away from government facilities.
It was launched at the Tuai Rumah Richard Pie longhouse in Bekenu, the fourth location after a longhouse in Long Laput, Baram; Rumah Nora Sungai Buri Bakong and a village in Sibuti.
Deputy Minister of Health Lukanisman Awang Sauni was present at the launching.
A total 21 villages throughout Sarawak have been identified for the village dental adoption programme by the Ministry this year.
The initiative which was launched in 2019 at Negeri Sembilan was expanded to Sarawak in 2021.
Besides, providing free dental healthcare services to some 632 residents of the 53-door longhouse, the programme’s objective is to create awareness on keeping their teeth healthy and clean.
“Our teeth have such a crucial role to play in our lives, they help us chew and digest food, they help us to talk and speak clearly and they also give our face its shape … it gives us greater confidence as well as influences our social lives and relationships. Because of this, it only makes sense to give our oral health the best care possible,”Lukanisman said.
“The Ministry is committed to providing healthcare facilities, helping and supporting communities through health programmes and activities such as the village dental adoption programme,” he added.
At the event, Lukanisman also announced an allocation of RM10,000 to the longhouse
Also present were Sarawak Health Director Dr Ooi Choo Huck, Subis District Officer Norlila Ulis, Miri Divisional Health Officer Dr P Raviwharmman and Miri Hospital Director Dr Jack Wong.
