KUALA LUMPUR, August 23 - Short-sightedness among school children in Federal Territories is alarming, according to the findings from screenings conducted under the Mata Hati Wilayah Programme.

Minister in the Prime Minister Department (Federal Territories), Dr. Zaliha Mustafa said based on the latest statistics, a staggering 58.2 percent from 2,077 students screened since the programme’s launch in June have been identified as short-sighted.

She expressed concern that if this issue is not addressed early, there is a possibility that these students may fall behind in their studies.

“That’s why we initiated this programme. We identify and provide appropriate intervention, such as giving free eyeglasses, enabling them to read properly and continue their learning effectively,” she said.

Dr. Zaliha made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the Federal Territory Kuala Lumpur SPM Excellence Seminar at the International Islamic University Malaysia on Thursday.

The Wilayah Mata Hati Programme is part of the Usaha Jaya Insan Programme (PUJI), aimed at tackling eye health issues among primary school children throughout the Federal Territories.

Schools selected to participate in the programme include Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Bukit Pantai, SK Desa Tasik, SK Setiawangsa, and SK Wangsa Maju Seksyen 1.