By V. Sivaji
The national level World Sight Day 2023 was held at the Kompleks Masyarakat Penyayang here where some 300 guests gathered,
Guest-of-honour was State Exco for Youth, Sports and Health YB Daniel Gooi State.
He was given a traditional welcome with the sound of drums from the various races in the country.
The theme for this year was “Love Your Eyes at Work” in order to create awareness at the work place related accidents which may cause eye injuries or even blindness.
Also present was Senator Dr A. Lingeshwaran, Datuk Dr Nor Fazirz Ngah, Deputy Health Director (Research and Technical Support), Dr Fazilah Shaik Allaudin (Penang State Health Director), Dr Mohd Aziz Husni (National Head for Ophthalmology), Dr Nur Aslina Bahakodin (Director of Penang General Hospital, Dr Ang Ee Ling (Head of Ophthalmology Penang GH and organizing chairman) among others.
In his address, Gooi stressed the importance of the care for the eyes as it is a serious problem among the general public.
“The International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) observes the second Thursday in October as the World Sight Day to raise awareness and the importance of eye health.
“Based on statistics, most of the cases leading to blindness in Malaysia among the elderly are due to cataract and diabetes.
“Next are the work related incidents where the proper safety precautions like goggles and others safety equipment are not followed. Safety in the workplace should not be taken lightly,” he added.
He also called on the those on the private and government sector to adhere to eye safety rules and regulations to minimize the risk of eye injuries.
He later joined hands with other VIP guests to launch the World Sight Day celebrations.
Members of the public were also treated to an exhibition, talks and free eye examinations while children also took part in colouring contests.
