A Penang AED-CPR (automated external defibrillator and cardiopulmonary resuscitation) Committee will be formed to address challenges related to these life-saving devices and the training required for their proper use.
Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen made this announcement during the inauguration of an AED installation at Auto City in Juru yesterday.
While Penang boasts the best implementation of AED installations among the states, he acknowledged there are still some problems that need to be ironed out.
For instance, he mentioned an incident where an AED was needed urgently, but it was discovered to be without a functional battery.
Moreover, while some AEDs can be purchased online, they may not come with after-sales service and training support.
“AEDs require regular maintenance, such as battery replacement, and electrode pad upkeep to ensure their effectiveness. Training is also crucial for the proper use of these devices,” Daniel said.
To address these concerns, the Penang AED-CPR Committee will be formed with Daniel as its head. This committee will include representatives from the state Health Department, local government, Penang Heart Safe Society, and both private and public institutions.
He explained that whenever there are emergencies that require the AED device, there tend to be people who may not be aware of how to use it.
“That is why we want to form this committee to look into all these problems.
“We also want to provide certification for responsible AED manufacturers and providers.
“Furthermore, we aim to establish standardised training procedures to ensure that individuals who have received training through the committee will have a uniform understanding. This way, in the event of an emergency, everyone will be equipped to correctly utilise AEDs,” Daniel added.
Through the committee, he said they will explore ways to ensure the coverage of AEDs in various locations. In emergencies, timely AED use during critical golden use time is essential for saving lives.
The installation of the AED device at Auto City was made possible with the partnership among corporate-public-government for the community’s benefit. It was placed prominently in front of the Suite Hotel.
Daniel also paid tribute to those who have helped all survivors of recent incidents. Two of the survivors, futsal player Wong Kean Hoe, 53, and badminton player Ng Lian Chye, 52, were present at the AED installation ceremony.
He also commended ZOLL for their commitment to providing after-sales service and training for all devices they deploy.
Daniel also highlighted Penang’s pride in leading the way in AED installation and deployment across Malaysia.
Penang Heart Safe Society president Datuk Dr Luah Lean Wah, who is also the founder of the Penang Heart Safe Programme since 2015, said there are approximately 170 AEDs, including mobile ones, in Penang. This count does not include AEDs installed by various companies and establishments as they are not officially documented.
“Since the Penang Heart Safe Programme started in 2015, we have recorded 12 survivors. Unfortunately, one of them passed away in the hospital after four days, so we have now a total of 11 survivors.
“Anybody can save lives. Equip yourself with knowledge and skills, and you can make a difference,” Dr Luah shared.
She also had some advice for those who have purchased AEDs.
“To those who have invested in AEDs, you must know the specifications of the AEDs. These include battery shell life, pads shell life, maintenance costs, and any ‘real-time’ feedback mechanisms.
“To the AED partners and suppliers, post-sale training and maintenance support is mandatory for ensuring the effectiveness and reliability of AEDs in saving lives,” Dr Luah said.
Among the notable attendees at the event were Bukit Tengah assemblyman Gooi Hsiao Leung, Auto City managing director Gary Teoh, ZOLL national sales manager Eric Khoo and Permatang Tinggi Residents Association chairman Goh Son Weng.
Story by Ammar Mikhail Aamer and K.H. Ong
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar