Visitors getting free health screening at the Madani Carnival 2024 in Kubang Semang. — Photos: ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
FOR rural folk, a basic dental check-up can take a whole day of travelling.
So when dentists “visit” their kampung, it becomes a much appreciated convenience.
This was especially true for housewife Nur Syafiqah Noor Husain, 30, in Kubang Semang on mainland Penang, who attended the Works Ministry’s Madani Carnival 2024 that offered dental services.
Cradling her one-year-old son, she said the event was like a boon for her as a mother.
“Going to the dentist while bringing along my son is difficult.
“Here, it is a nice outing for us and I can quickly get my teeth and my son’s checked.
“Hopefully, he cooperates and allows the dentist to check his gum health,” she said when waiting for their turn to see the dentist.
Nur Syafiqah together with her cousin at the carnival, were delighted to find many booths including those manned by health professionals offering check-ups such as blood pressure, sugar levels, and body weight for visitors.
“From our kampung, going to the various agencies or clinics takes up a lot of travel time.
“The carnival is so convenient and we can make a fun outing of it,” she said, adding that they could also eat at the food stalls there before heading back home.
Nur Syafiqah said all the free treatment and check-ups were of great benefit for rural folk.
Nur Syafiqah (right) holding son Muhammad Hayyan Zikry Mohd Khairul Tarmizi, one, with her cousin Norashikin (on her right) and other visitors learning about dental care at the carnival.
“Private clinics are costly. Here, it is free and quick.”
Her cousin Norashikin Abu Bakar, 35, shared the same feelings as she waited for her turn.
“I get to spend time with my family and have my teeth checked for free.
“There are only a few people ahead of me, so I will get to see the dentist fast.
“This saves me time and money while getting to hang out with my family,” she said.
Many shared the same sentiments as they brought their children along to enjoy their Saturday during the carnival at the Kubang Semang night market grounds in Jalan Permatang Nibong, Bukit Mertajam.
This carnival saw booths from various government agencies including one from the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, Road Transport Department, National Population and Family Development Board, police, health department and Rahmah Madani sale among others.
The carnival boasted 20 stalls excluding those set up by the villagers on the sidelines offering local delights.
Azman hopes the Madani programme will help the people learn about the government’s initiatives and how they can enjoy the benefits.
Works Ministry secretary- general Datuk Seri Azman Ibrahim, who was the guest of honour at the carnival, said events like this made it easier for the ministry to interact with the locals and highlight their needs.
He said contributions of RM20,000 had been provided by the Construction Industry Development Board under the Works Ministry to the Kubang Semang village community management council for repairs on its office, houses for the needy and air-conditioning installation at SMK Penanti.
“I hope this Madani programme works as a two-way platform for the people to learn about the government’s initiatives directly from us and how they can enjoy the benefits.
“This will be one of the channels for you to voice your opinions and views on the government so that we can work towards being a united nation that is inclusive, creative, sustainable and prosperous.”
