Abang Jo keeps an eye out on robots to help the elderly

 The Sarawak premier says technology could help solve challenges in providing health services and assistance to an ageing population.

Sarawak premier Abang Johari Openg taking a look at a robot on display at the Borneo Makers Festival in Kuching today. (Ukas pic)

PETALING JAYA:

Sarawak could turn to robots to help with its ageing population, premier Abang Johari Openg said, citing similar approaches adopted in Japan and Europe where robots are being used in the health services.

Abang Johari said that Sarawak’s vast size and relatively small population created challenges in providing healthcare and assistance, but technology could help bridge the gap, Dayak Daily reported.

The state could explore the use of robotics to supplement its healthcare workforce as demand for elderly care grows, he said.

“Technology could help bridge gaps in delivering health services and assistance to communities. Robots could also improve precision in medical procedures, including surgery, while helping health workers carry out tasks more efficiently,” he was quoted as saying at the launch of Borneo Makers Festival in Kuching.

Official statistics show Sarawak ranked second after Perak with a population aged 60 and above.

Three years ago, Abang Johari raised the possibility of the state creating a robot for healthcare, similar to “Grace”, a Japanese robot designed to interact with the elderly and those isolated by Covid-19. - FMT