KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry will continue to work with the private healthcare industry to enhance occupational safety and health at the workplace, in line with its enhanced public-private partnership.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said occupational health issues were vital, given the pressing need across industrial sectors to prevent exposure to occupational health hazards and the development of health conditions such as lung and skin diseases, noise-induced hearing loss and joint problems.
"It is imperative to underscore the pivotal role played by our industrial workers, the driving force behind our nation's economic progress.
"Their dedication and hard work propel our nation forwards, and it is our responsibility to safeguard their health and well-being.
"The health of our workforce is intrinsically linked to the prosperity of our nation," she said at the launch of the Twin Towers Mobile Clinic here, today.
She said innovative initiatives such as the Twin Towers Mobile Clinic marked a significant milestone in the healthcare industry, addressing the healthcare needs of workers in the industrial sector by providing easy access to medical facilities.
"This underscores the urgency and relevance of this initiative in safeguarding the health of our workforce," she added.
Citing statistics from the Department of Statistics, Dr Zaliha said there were 21,534 occupational accidents (301 fatal) and 5,289 occupational disease cases, highlighting the need for proactive care.
"Evidence shows that occupational accidents and diseases not only impact the organisation but may also carry a social implication towards the family of the affected employee.
"Therefore, it is important to manage holistically the health of employees, taking into consideration all aspects of health, be it extrinsic or intrinsic," said Dr Zaliha.
The mobile clinic will be managed by a dedicated core team consisting of a doctor, nursing team, radiographer and an administrative assistant.
Inside the clinic-on-wheels, patients will find a dedicated area for doctor consultations, complete with a medical examination bed, an X-ray unit and audiometry testing area.