By Alleyhandra Celio anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Tuesday, 1 July 2025
The event aimed to help people take charge of their health while also planting seeds of hope and spiritual connection.
On June 21- 22 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the Festival of Health took place at the church and Dewan Serbaguna, Kampung Tarat Sibala, and it turned out to be more than just a health program. It was a meaningful day where medical care, education, and faith came together to serve the community. Organized by the SAK Health Department, in collaboration with medical volunteers, the Serian Dental Clinic, and Tarat Sibala Church members, the event aimed to help people take charge of their health while also planting seeds of hope and spiritual connection.
The goal behind the festival was simple but important,to promote a healthier lifestyle and to help the community better understand the real risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These chronic deseases, like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Through this program, the community had the chance to learn how to prevent them and how small changes in daily habits can make a big difference. Today, tomorrow might be too late.
The support from medical team and lay people was incredible. A total of 39 volunteers came together to make this event possible. This included 27 medical volunteers,among them were 2 doctors and 10 nurses,along with 12 team members from the Serian Dental Clinic who offered dental checkups and advice. Their presence and kindness meant a lot to the people who attended.
One of the key parts of the day was the series of health talks and seminars. Dr. Jivan Latif Niru, Chief Assistant Director from JKNS, and Dr. Bego Sepop, Director of Advanced Pathology Sdn. Bhd. Their presentations provided practical information on disease prevention and healthy living. There was also a mental health seminar, led by Mr. Sim Nueng, a licensed counselor, who spoke about managing stress and mental well-being. Another highlight was the talk on the “Eight Treasures” of health by Pr. Ham Diyon, Health Ministries Director for the Sarawak SDA Mission. His message focused on 8 component health principles like proper nutrition or NEWSTART which is nutrition, exercise, water, sunlight, temperance, air, rest and trust in devine power, reminding everyone that good health isn’t just physical, but also spiritual.
Around 100 people, including children, took part in the health screenings offered at thecommunity hall. Many found out about issues they didn’t even know they had. For some, it was the first time they’d ever had their blood pressure or glucose levels checked. The event didn’t just offer help,it offered awareness, encouragement, and hope.
One of the more touching parts of the day was how the festival naturally created space for deeper conversations, not just about health, but also about faith. Events like this can often open people’s hearts to spiritual truths in ways that sermons alone sometimes can’t. When people feel cared for, when they see love in action, it points them to something greater. As Adventists, we believe that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20), and caring for them is an act of worship. For many who may not attend church regularly, the compassion shown through simple health services might just be the first step toward meeting the Healer Himself, Jesus Christ.
In the end, the Festival of Health was more than just a program. It was a reminder that when a community comes together,when health professionals, volunteers, and church members serve side by side,lives can be touched in powerful ways. It showed that real ministry can happen outside church walls, and that healing often begins with listening, serving, and loving people where they are.
Health Department