Diabetes affects more than 537 million adults worldwide, with cases expected to rise to 783 million by 2045. In conjunction with World Diabetes Day 2024, SEGi’s Leo Club joined forces with District 308-A2 Region 1 Lions Club and the Diabetes Malaysia Sarawak Branch to drive an impactful awareness campaign on 14 November 2024. The initiative aimed to educate the public on diabetes prevention, healthy living, and improved access to care, reinforcing the urgent need for proactive health measures.
The event, chaired by Dr William Voon, Chairman of Diabetes Malaysia Sarawak Branch, and officiated by DBKU Mayor Dato Haji Hilmy, representing Tuan Yang Terutama (TYT) Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak Tun Pehin Dr Wan Junaidi Bin Tuanku Jaafar, brought together key figures dedicated to public health advocacy. In their speeches, they stressed that 1 in 10 adults worldwide lives with diabetes, and without proper awareness and intervention, diabetes-related deaths could double by 2045.
More than 50 participants attended the event, which featured an engaging diabetes awareness presentation by a champion from St. Mary Secondary School, Kuching. Research highlights that early education on health risks can reduce the likelihood of Type 2 diabetes by up to 58%. By integrating young voices into the campaign, the initiative fostered a culture of proactive health management from an early age.
To promote holistic well-being, the programme also included a special exercise performance, reinforcing the importance of physical activity in diabetes prevention. Studies show that regular exercise can lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes by 30% , making movement a critical component of disease management. SEGi College Sarawak’s active participation in health initiatives aligns with its commitment to empowering students to take an active role in community-driven change.
The event concluded with a token of appreciation presented to Dato Haji Hilmy, marking the success of a campaign that not only raised awareness but also strengthened the commitment to public health initiatives. The role of institutions in supporting community health education cannot be overstated, as partnerships between education and healthcare organisations play a pivotal role in reducing global health inequalities.
With diabetes cases increasing worldwide, awareness, prevention, and education are more crucial than ever. SEGi continues to advocate for sustainable health solutions, ensuring students and communities are equipped with the knowledge and resources to take charge of their well-being.
This event is organised in support of the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):
SDG3 Good Health and Well-being
SDG10 Reduced Inequalities
SDG17 Partnerships for the Goals
