KUCHING, Nov 21: The Rotary Club of Bintulu Central (RCBC) officially launched its Train-The-Trainer (TTT) programme to address the rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in Sarawak.
The initiative, aimed at equipping healthcare professionals and community members with essential skills, is a proactive step towards creating a dementia-friendly Sarawak by 2050.
Deputy Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian stressed the importance of this initiative in preparing for the state’s transition to an ageing population.
“Sarawak in 2030 will not be the same as 2024. We are now facing a significant increase in Alzheimer’s cases compared to 2014.
“This underscores the urgent need for targeted solutions,” he said in his speech during the Alzheimer’s Care project launch and Train-the-Trainer certificate ceremony held at a hotel in Kuching on Thursday.
Meanwhile, RCBC President Allen Wong outlined the three-phase roadmap for the initiative, starting with public awareness campaigns through webinars and the current TTT phase, which certifies trainers to educate community caregivers.
“[Phase 1] connects Sarawak’s trainers, caregivers, and communities like a river, flowing together toward a dementia-friendly Sarawak,” Wong explained.
The TTT programme aims to certify 128 trainers by 2025, focusing on four key cities: Kuching, Sibu, Bintulu, and Miri. These trainers will conduct caregiving workshops projected to benefit 1,600 caregivers annually by 2026.
Wong added that subsequent phases will include the development of a digital support system and the establishment of a dedicated dementia and Alzheimer’s care centre.
“This effort provides a comprehensive framework to alleviate pressure on healthcare facilities while championing community-driven care,” he added.
In addition to the Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation Malaysia (ADFM) and RCBC, other strategic partners involved in this project are the Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI), Sarawak Mental Health Association, Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), Federal Chinese Association, Rotary International District 3310 and Rotary Club Malaysia Foundation. -TVS
