MERSING: Despite facing hardships and being away from their family, two nurses have remained steadfast in serving the locals at two rural clinics over the past 12 years.
Siti Fatimah Md Rasan and Faridah Abdullah are the sole medical staff at a clinic located in Pulau Tinggi and Pulau Aur, some 30km and 104km from here, respectively.
The islands are generally accessible only by boat and are at least an hour’s ride away.
Usually, two nurses will manage such clinics but not in this case as few are willing to be based here.
Yong Peng assemblyman Ling Tian Soon said due to the distance, Siti Fatimah and Faridah often face various material shortages, logistics challenges and the burden of doing all the work alone.
“Despite all these hardships, they have steadfastly remained there to serve the people. “Would anyone else be willing to work on the island for 12 years? Their dedication and perseverance are highly commendable,” said Ling.
On Wednesday (Sept 18), the MCA Youth chief paid the nurses a visit with Mersing health officers.
Ling, who is also Johor health and environment committee chairman, also said that Siti Fatimah and Faridah had unexpectedly found their life companions amid the remote island setting.
“When they were first posted there, both were single. But over the years, they have forged cherished bonds, now occasionally facing the bittersweet challenge of separation from their children and families.
“Nevertheless, they persist in their unwavering commitment to serve the people on the island,” he said.
“I am proud and thankful following their dedication and high commitment.
“Because of their selfless sacrifices, we can have a sound and comprehensive healthcare system that serves all.
“Their resolute determination in the face of adversity is truly commendable,” he added.
Ling also noted that the country has a good healthcare system that provides accessible medical care for all.
“Johor has many islands, some inhabited. Providing medical services for islanders is a government responsibility,” he said.
He added that the state Health Department operates four rural clinics on the islands that care for pregnant women and infants, refill long-term medications and offer mobile clinic services for islanders.
