The Heart Foundation of Malaysia has ‘loaned out’ its halfway houses to the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM) for its use during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The foundation provides accommodation, for a nominal fee, to help families of patients from outside Kuala Lumpur undergoing treatment or check-ups at the National Heart Institute.
“Priority is for the B40 group, but since the Covid-19 pandemic, not many people have taken up the offer to use the facilities,” said Heart Foundation of Malaysia chairman Datuk Dr Aljafri Abdul Majid.
“We were approached by NCSM last year to see if they could use the halfway houses for their patients, and we agreed.
“It is a temporary arrangement … right now, we need to help each other.”
Dr Aljafri said that because of the pandemic, patients from outside Kuala Lumpur were forced to skip or postpone their appointments at the National Heart Institute.
“Covid-19 or not, one must not miss an appointment. This is because doctors need to monitor the patients, and sometimes, medications may need to be adjusted,” said Dr Aljafri, a retired cardiothoracic surgeon.
“There are also tests that need to be carried out.
“Therefore, I urge all patients who have missed or cancelled their appointments, to quickly reschedule them.”
He added the foundation was ready to assist those in need of accommodation, and urged those interested, to get in touch with them.
Separately, Dr Aljafri said he was grateful for the internet as the Heart Foundation of Malaysia could organise several activities to celebrate World Heart Day which falls on Sept 29.
The foundation commemorated the celebration on Nov 28, due to the pandemic.
During the celebration at its premises in Kuala Lumpur, the foundation received a Proton Saga 1.3L from Spanco Sdn Bhd.
Dr Aljafri also thanked Nestle Malaysia for organising a virtual walkathon in September that raised RM50,000 each, for the foundation, and the National Heart Institute.
“The internet is a boon as we could organise several events to raise awareness about coronary disease.
“Covid-19 has not stopped many from wanting to look after themselves, and these virtual events helped us reach many people.”
He also urged Malaysians to lead a healthier lifestyle, as it only takes 10-15 years for the effects of an overly ‘rich’ diet and a lack of exercise to manifest themselves, and lead to coronary issues.
“There is nothing wrong in indulging in our great Malaysian food. But there should be a good balance,” said Dr Aljafri.
“Many people stop being active the moment they leave school. So, in 10-15 years, someone in their late 30s or early 40s could have a heart attack if they do not take care of themselves.
“As usual, prevention is always better than cure.
“We want this message to reach the younger generation. They need to be aware before it is too late.”
