KUDAT: Parents have been urged to ensure their children undergo regular eye examinations to detect vision problems early, as undiagnosed eyesight issues could affect learning and development.
Sabah Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk Julita Majungki said some children were wrongly perceived as inattentive or lazy in class when they were actually struggling to see clearly.
“Early detection through regular eye examinations is crucial so appropriate treatment and assistance can be provided before the condition worsens,” she said in a speech delivered by Sabah Women’s Advisory Council (MPWS) chairman Datuk Dr Rosmawati Lasuki at an eye screening programme and spectacle presentation in Matunggong.
Julita, who is also Matunggong assemblywoman, said good vision was essential for effective learning as students relied heavily on their ability to read, follow lessons and participate in classroom activities.
She said untreated vision problems could affect students’ academic performance, emotional development and self-confidence.
The three-day programme, held from July 27 to 29 at SMK Pinawantai, SMK Matunggong, SK Pinawantai and SK Matunggong, involved eye examinations and the provision of spectacles to 300 students from B40 families who required them.
The initiative was organised by MPWS and the Sabah Women’s Affairs Department (JHEWA) under the Ministry of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing, in collaboration with the Matunggong Sub-District Office, Kudat District Education Office, Community Development Unit for Matunggong and private partner Specktruck Sdn Bhd.
Julita said providing healthcare services directly to rural communities was important as some families faced barriers such as distance, transport costs and financial constraints.
“While the cost of a pair of spectacles may seem insignificant to some, for a student it can open the door to a brighter future,” she said.
She said the programme reflected the Sabah government’s commitment to preventive healthcare, early detection and continued intervention under the Sabah Maju Jaya development agenda.
Julita also called for greater cooperation between schools, parents and relevant agencies to expand similar initiatives statewide.
Meanwhile, Rosmawati said the programme also offered free eye screenings to members of the surrounding B40 community.
She said the initiative aimed to identify vision problems early, raise awareness on eye health and support inclusive healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas.
“Strategic partnerships between the government, private sector and local communities should continue to be strengthened for the benefit of those requiring ongoing support,” she said.
