SWIMMING AGAINST THE CURRENTS: OUR EXPERIENCE PROVIDING PRIMARY HEALTHCARE SERVICES FOR THE STATELESS COMMUNITY IN SEMPORNA

Author: Mei Yee How ¹ ; Shu Hui Ng ²
Author Information

1. Klinik Kesihatan Apas Balung, Jalan Apas Balung, Tawau, Sabah, Malaysia.
2. BO1-A-9, Menara 2, KL Eco City, 3, Jln Bangsar 59200 Kuala Lumpur WP Malaysia.
Publication Type:Other Types
Keywords: Stateless community; Medical outreach programme; Primary healthcare services
From:Malaysian Family Physician 2024;19(1):1-3
CountryMalaysia
Language:English
Abstract: SWIMMING AGAINST THE CURRENTS: OUR EXPERIENCE PROVIDING PRIMARY HEALTHCARE SERVICES FOR THE STATELESS COMMUNITY IN SEMPORNA:Malaysia provides robust universal health coverage for its citizens, and primary healthcare services are easily accessible to most Malaysians.1 However, access to healthcare does not extend to the stateless population, including the Bajau Laut community in Semporna, East Sabah. Semporna is often touted as Asia’s best aquatic paradise, with divers and tourists from across the world ocking to the region to experience the spectacular waters and diverse marine life. Many people remain oblivious to the challenges endured by the stateless population, including the lack of access to basic primary healthcare.
Full text:2026101518480464869Swimming against the currents.pdf