Dementia and Alzheimer's Awareness Talk Held in Kiulu

24 November 2024

KIULU : Kiulu can become a health-friendly tourism destination by leveraging its natural beauty and support from the local community, said Kiulu State Assembly Member (ADUN) Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

He described Kiulu as a "tourism with a heart" destination where tourism not only promotes natural beauty but also provides health benefits to visitors and local residents.

“Kiulu has strong community values and a spirit of togetherness. We can promote tourism that brings holistic benefits to everyone,” said Joniston, who is also the Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment.

He made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the Dementia and Alzheimer’s Awareness Talk in conjunction with Welfare Month at the Kiulu Community Hall on Thursday.

Emphasising the importance of awareness about these diseases, Joniston highlighted the role of small communities like Kiulu in providing support to individuals affected by conditions such as dementia.

“With its close social structure, Kiulu can serve as an example of how small communities can play a significant role in supporting patients and their families.

“Additionally, the use of natural therapies, such as the peaceful environment and beautiful landscape of Kiulu, along with traditional activities like farming and craft-making, can be supportive elements for patients,” he added.

The awareness programme, organised by the Sabah Alzheimer’s Disease Support Association in collaboration with the local community, included talks and information-sharing sessions about the symptoms, prevention, and support for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients.

Joniston stated that this programme equips Kiulu residents with important information, enabling them to recognise the early signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s and provide moral, physical, and social support in line with the community values of unity in Kiulu.

The programme was also attended by the Founder of the Sabah Alzheimer’s Disease Support Association, Datuk Zahra Ismail, Deputy President of the Alzheimer’s Support Association, Venitia Lojuti, and Community Development Leader for N.15 Kiulu, Golubi Guntarek.