KOTA KINABALU : KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital marked World Diabetes Day 2025 with a community-focused health awareness programme aimed at promoting early detection, preventative lifestyle habits, and improved diabetes management among the public. The half-day event, held at Kinabalu Hall (Level 8) brought together medical specialists, and members of the community for an engaging and educational session.
Recent findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 reveal a pressing national concern, with 21 per cent of Malaysians — or one in five adults —diagnosed with diabetes.
Malaysia currently ranks 13th globally and records the highest prevalence of diabetes in South-East Asia. In response to this growing public health challenge, KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital continues to strengthen its commitment to promoting early diagnosis, prevention, and comprehensive diabetes education through its World Diabetes Day programme.
Themed around the global mission of strengthening diabetes awareness, the event served as a platform to address the rising prevalence of diabetes in Malaysia and highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and effective care.
The programme highlighted two expert-led health talks that addressed key questions surrounding diabetes, including whether the disease can be prevented, why prevention is essential, and the possibility of reversing early-stage diabetes.
Dr. Murugan S. Rajan, Consultant in General Medicine and Physician, delivered his presentation titled “Diabetes Mellitus: To Prevent or To Reverse?” where he discussed practical approaches to diabetes prevention, the importance of reducing long-term health risks, and the potential for reversal through early intervention and lifestyle modification.
This was followed by a session with Dr. Tee Hwee Ching, Consultant Endocrinologist and Physician, who delivered her presentation titled “Diagnose Early, Manage Smart: Elevating Standards in Diabetes Care.”
She highlighted the importance of early diagnosis, particularly the need to screen asymptomatic individuals who may be at risk but show no outward symptoms.
Dr. Tee also emphasized on medical nutrition therapy with a focus on carbohydrate management, as key components in improving long-term diabetes care.
The event also featured a range of interactive activities and health promotion booths, including:
• Free HbA1c Screening for the first 150 participants
• Foot Care and Diabetic Complication Awareness Booth
• Insulin Technique Demonstration• Diabetes-Friendly Food Sampling
• Educational Games and Aerobic Session led by KPJ Sabah’s Diabetic Educator Team
These activities were designed to engage participants of all ages and empower them with practical knowledge on diabetes management, dietary choices, and active living.
KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital remains steadfast in advancing public health efforts and strengthening community awareness.
Through initiatives such as World Diabetes Day, the hospital continuously promotes preventive healthcare, encourages early detection, and supports comprehensive patient management in alignment with KPJ Healthcare’s “Care for Life” value.
For more information about KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital’s services or to make an appointment, please contact our general line: +6088 322 000 or WhatsApp: +60 11-1318 5131. – pr/BNN
