By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Healthcare personnel in Sabah have been urged to take on the responsibility of expanding awareness of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) across the state and to be prepared for emerging challenges.
A different approach is required to strengthen the SDGs at all levels, said Community Development and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk James Ratib.
“Valid research and data are the foundation of policy planning, intervention evaluation, and efficient resource utilisation,” he said at the launch of the 17th Sabah Public Health Colloquium 2025 at a hotel here.
He stressed that every step taken towards achieving the SDGs must be backed by solid evidence.
James highlighted the relevance of several SDGs closely linked to public health: good health and well-being (SDG 3), clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), quality education (SDG 4), and climate action (SDG 13).
He underlined the need for cross-sectoral approaches and integrated policies to secure a sustainable and healthy future for all.
The government has introduced the Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat (ANMS) to cultivate a healthy and prosperous population through a culture of healthy living and a supportive, sustainable environment.
The ANMS focuses on several key initiatives: healthy lifestyle practices, environmental health, universal health coverage (UHC), and self-care health.
James said the Ministry also supports the UHC initiative by upgrading health facilities across the state to ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare.
“To enhance access and quality of healthcare services regardless of background, race or religion, delivery by the Ministry of Health (MOH) must be comprehensive,” he said.
He expressed hope that Sabah State Health Department personnel will be more motivated and prepared to face increasingly complex public health challenges.
Among the major challenges, he said, is the ageing population. Malaysia is projected to become an aged nation by 2030, when 15 per cent of its population will be aged 60 and above.
“In Sabah, too, we are witnessing a steady rise in the number of senior citizens, driven by longer life expectancy and falling birth rates,” he said.
James hoped the colloquium would provide new ideas, innovations and strategies to address future health challenges.
Meanwhile, Sabah Health Director Dr Maria Suleiman said the organisation of the colloquium aligns with the Fourth Pillar of the Health White Paper – Strengthening the Foundations and Governance of the Health System.
