Kota Kinabalu: There are now more than 800 pharmacists serving Sabah, reflecting the growth of the Sabah Pharmaceutical Society (SPS).
The only professional body representing pharmacists in Sabah celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Sabah International Convention Centre on May 16.
Co-organising chairperson Jemima Ho said the society had evolved from a small group of closely connected pharmacists into a professional community.
She said SPS continues to engage with the public through annual World Pharmacists Day celebrations, while also organising seminars and conferences together with the Pharmaceutical Services Division of the Sabah State Health Department.
She added that strong collaboration between pharmacists in the public and private sectors had contributed significantly to the profession’s progress in Sabah.
President Hiew Chui Li described pharmacists as the “unsung heroes” of the healthcare system.
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“Pharmacists work quietly behind the scenes to ensure uninterrupted medicine supply, safe use of medicines and continuous advocacy for patients,” she said.
She also paid tribute to the founders and past leaders of the society, whose dedication and commitment helped shape SPS into what it is today.
Guest of honour Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Joachim Gunsalam praised SPS for successfully uniting pharmacists across Sabah under one umbrella.
Drawing on his experience as a medical doctor, he acknowledged the vital role pharmacists play in hospitals, including preparing extemporaneous medications and specialised formulations for patients.
He said the profession had grown tremendously from fewer than 20 pharmacists in Sabah many years ago to around 800 today.
He also highlighted the expanding role of pharmacists in both the public and private healthcare sectors, noting that pharmacy services such as drive-through medication collection, postal delivery services and medicine lockers had improved convenience and accessibility for patients.
Dr Joachim said community pharmacists also play an important role as accessible healthcare professionals for minor ailments and medication advice.
He also emphasised the importance of collaboration between doctors and pharmacists in ensuring effective medication treatment and patient care.
