PENANG may be small in size, but it delivers exceptional services to its residents.
The state is not only a key economic powerhouse, driving investments and leading in the semiconductor industry, but it also prioritises the well-being of its people.
In 2015, Penang made history when over 6,700 individuals participated in a mass cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) session, earning a place in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for the most CPRs performed in a day.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) George Town vice-president Christopher Barnabas has proposed to the Malaysia Resuscitation Association (MyRES) to organise the country’s inaugural ‘First Responders Conference’ in Penang.
“The date we are looking at is Nov 2 this year. I have also discussed this with state Youth, Sports, and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, and we hope to receive a positive response from his office and MyRES.
“Penang is well-equipped with mobile medical facilities, including automated external defibrillators (AEDs) located in public places across the state.
“Penang has one of the highest numbers of AEDs installed in public areas, making it a fitting location for this inaugural event to demonstrate its commitment to public health.
“The main objective of this conference is to educate and train people on the importance of being first responders during emergencies.
“First responders are not just paramedics and health experts; anyone can be a first responder with proper training on using the available equipment and facilities.
“We can all save lives,” Christopher said during the Mega Health Carnival 2024 in conjunction with the Penang Heritage Celebration Week at New World Park in George Town today.
The health carnival, a collaboration between Gleneagles Hospital Penang and CERT George Town, was graced by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and featured various educational and health screening booths.
In his speech, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow highlighted Penang’s support from numerous non-governmental organisations (NGOs), communities, and health partners in delivering medical services both within traditional health premises and public places.
“Events like these are essential as they provide our community with access to vital health services and promote awareness about the importance of regular health checks.
“Gleneagles Hospital’s commitment to public health is commendable, and such initiatives greatly benefit the community, exemplifying the spirit of community engagement that we hold dear in Penang,” Chow said.
Gleneagles Hospital senior marketing manager Foo Ai Leen highlighted the health carnival’s core objective: to promote physical activity, health initiatives, and foster healthy lifestyles and overall wellness within the community.
Separately, CERT George Town will hold its 9th-anniversary fundraising dinner on Nov 30 this year at SJKC Shang Wu in George Town.
The event aims to raise RM300,000 for the acquisition of four 250cc motorcycles and to bolster its operational funds.
Also present at the event were Deputy Finance Minister and Tanjong MP Lim Hui Ying, Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, and Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix and video by Alissala Thian