By P. Chandra Sagaran
In conjunction with World Sight Day on October 12, Persatuan Kebajikan Amal Makmur Negeri Perak organised an eye screening programme for school children in Ipoh.
The event is observed on the 2nd Thursday of October annually.
Association Secretary K. Nachemutu said, ” the objective of the event is to create awareness among the people of the importance of eye care.
” As 80 percent of children’s learning and studies are through the eyes and therefore it is important that early detection of any problems at an early stage is vital,” added Nachemutu who is also the eye screening project chairman.
During the event at SJK (T) Taman Desa Pinji Mewah a total of 150 pupils were screened with the support of Vision C Optical Centre Ipoh.
Dr P. Subasini from Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital’s Ophthalmology Department gave a talk on the need to get advice from medical personnel before eye drops or related medicine are used.
Parents must also ensure the date has not expired.
Senior Ophthalmologist Datuk Dr Jasvinder Singh from KPJ Ipoh Specialist Hospital who was also present said such programmes are important to create the importance and awareness among students, teachers and parents.
The association had been carrying out the project since July 2022 and a total of 9,200 pupils had their eyes screened in the state.
The association has so far covered Kuala Kangsar, Kinta, Manjung, Kampar and Perak Tengah and hope to hit the 10,000 figure by the end of the year.