Latest news with #StateHealthCommittee
The Sun
05-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Malaysian trucker donates rare Rh-negative blood for 33 years
TANJONG MALIM: A lorry driver's accident 34 years ago led him to a lifelong mission of donating his rare Rh-negative blood, a type difficult to find in Malaysia. S. Shanmugam, 54, has since given blood 54 times, becoming the largest donor of this rare blood type to Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital (HRPB). Shanmugam discovered his blood type's rarity after a 1991 accident delayed his surgery due to a lack of matching donors. 'From there, I realised I needed to become a donor out of responsibility,' he said after receiving an award at Slim River Hospital during Perak's World Blood Donor Day celebration. Living in Teluk Intan, Shanmugam donates four times yearly, as Rh-negative blood makes up less than 10% of Malaysia's blood supply. State Health Committee chairman A. Sivanesan presented awards to top donors, including legal consultant Beh Zeng Kang, 29, who has donated 51 times since age 17. Beh, with the common O blood type, said donating is a routine. 'As long as I'm healthy, I'll keep helping those in need,' he said. Sivanesan noted Perak collected 64,416 blood bags last year, with Chinese donors leading at 48.32%, followed by Malays (39.12%) and Indians (11.40%). The state estimates needing 80,000 blood bags annually. Special certificates were given to 36 donors and 15 campaign organisers for their contributions.
New Straits Times
05-06-2025
- Health
- New Straits Times
Penang to meet vape industry before deciding on possible sales ban
GEORGETOWN: The Penang government will engage with vape industry players before making any decision on a potential ban on the sale of vape products in the state. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state government had received a letter from representatives of the vape industry regarding the matter. "They wanted us to hear them out, and we are prepared to do so. "I have instructed the relevant state executive council member to meet with them and listen to their concerns," he told reporters today, adding that the letter was received recently. Last month, State Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi told the state legislative assembly that Penang might consider imposing a statewide ban on the sale of vape products next year if enforcement under the new smoking control law proves ineffective. The Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2024 (Act 852), which came into force on Oct 1 last year, aims to strengthen regulations on the sale, advertising, and promotion of all smoking products, including e-cigarettes and vape, across Malaysia. The Act specifically targets individuals under the age of 18, prohibiting them from selling, purchasing or using any smoking product by any means. Chow added that Penang was not the only state considering a statewide ban on the sale of vape products. He said several other states were also exploring the same move. "Of course, we are aware of the health risks associated with the irresponsible use of vape products. "However, there are other issues we need to consider. Imposing a ban will have various consequences and may not effectively address the social problems related to the underground sale of vape products. "As such, we need to study the matter carefully before making any decision," he added.
