Prevention is better than cure

■Proper way to wear it: Chua (right) and MCA Bagan division vice chairman Sum Yoo Keong (left) distributing the masks at Apollo Market in Jalan Raja Uda, Butterworth.

By M. SIVANANTHA SHARMA

THOSE patronising the Apollo Market along Jalan Raja Uda in Butterworth recently received a pleasant surprise when several MCA Youth members distributed free face masks, leaflets and instant hand sanitisers to them.

Bagan MCA division Youth head David Chua Teik Siang said the event was organised to create public health awareness following the influenza A (H1N1) flu pandemic.

“We believe the approach of going to the ground to meet people is the most effective,’’ he said.

About 6,000 masks, 1,000 leaflets and 100 hand sanitisers were given away during the campaign which lasted about two hours at the Apollo Market.

Chua noted that many were not taking precautionary measures, especially the wearing of the face mask, seriously despite repeated reminders by the health authorities.

He said the people should inculcate the culture of taking precautionary measures as prevention is better than cure.

Several people slowed down their vehicles and asked for the face masks while some even asked for extra ones during the campaign.

Irene Liew, 37, a housewife praised the MCA Youth for their caring attitude in embarking on the awareness campaign about the viral flu.

Indira Siva, 27, an accountant said other organisations including non-governmental organisations (NGOs) should emulate the wing as such efforts would benefit the community.

From: The Star . 18-09-2009