PSLEM Sabah Host Lupus Awareness Talk

12 August 2025

KENINGAU: The Sabah Chapter of the Malaysian SLE Association (PSLEM) successfully held its Lupus Awareness Programme 2025 at Hotel Juta, Keningau, welcoming 60 attendees for a day of education and empowerment.

The event aimed to raise awareness and provide accurate information about Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)—a chronic autoimmune disease frequently misunderstood and misrepresented.

A highlight of the programme was a talk by Dr Izdihar Marwani Binti Haji Dahlan, Senior Medical Officer at Hospital Queen Elizabeth I, who addressed the realities and misconceptions surrounding SLE. She offered important insights into the disease’s symptoms and stressed the vital role of early diagnosis in improving patient outcomes.

The audience responded with enthusiasm, engaging in a lively Q&A session and posing thoughtful questions throughout.

A particularly moving moment came when Ms Esther, an SLE patient, shared her personal journey, reflecting on the physical and emotional challenges of living with lupus. She also offered a heartfelt message of hope, encouraging fellow patients to remain strong, adhere to their treatment plans, and seek support from their communities.

Held under the theme “Stronger Together: Raising Lupus Awareness,” the event forms part of PSLEM Sabah’s ongoing outreach efforts.

Geoffrey Sinn, President of the PSLEM Sabah Chapter, underlined the importance of community involvement.

“While there is no cure for lupus, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and sustained support are essential in improving patients’ quality of life,” he stated.

He added that the campaign is about more than just education—it’s about mobilising public support for the ‘Lupus Warriors’: the courageous individuals living with the condition.

Founded in 1994, PSLEM is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting those affected by lupus. The Sabah Chapter currently has over 860 members, including 760 patients.

For more information on SLE and PSLEM Sabah’s initiatives, the public is encouraged to contact the organisation at 012-813 3338 or email pslemsabah@yahoo.com.