In conjunction with World Sight Day 2024, the optical retail chain is hosting a week-long roadshow featuring a variety of eye health-related activities aimed at encouraging Malaysians to prioritise their eye health while making it accessible to individuals from all walks of life.
In a statement after today’s launch at the Mid Valley Megamall in Kuala Lumpur, Focus Point CEO and president Liaw Choon Liang said the company has commemorated World Sight Day for the past 12 years as promoting eye health awareness is at the core of its mission.
He said an estimated 2.7 billion people globally suffer from uncorrected poor vision while around 1.1 billion are at risk of severe visual impairment.
According to Liaw, an estimated 23% of the world’s population had myopia in 2015, and this number is expected to surge to 50% by 2050 due to lifestyle changes.
“As the leading optical chain in Malaysia, we are acutely aware of the importance of caring for sight and are fully committed to educating the public about proper eye care,” he said.
Liaw added that Focus Point strives to set an example by nurturing the next generation of optometrists and collaborating with educational institutions to bridge the gap in eye care services.
As part of its World Sight Day 2024 campaign, Focus Point is providing advanced eye screening services and myopia management consultations. It is also showcasing the latest myopia control lens, which is aimed at slowing down myopia progression in children.
Visitors to the roadshow can receive a free assessment from specialists and also learn more about glaucoma, cataracts, and Lasik surgery.
There will also be public talks conducted by eye care specialists this weekend, providing valuable insights into maintaining eye health and addressing common vision issues.
Separately, health secretary-general Suriani Ahmad highlighted the urgent need for increased awareness surrounding eye health, adding that early detection and appropriate care could prevent millions of people worldwide from living with vision impairment.
“Good eyesight is not just a privilege, it is fundamental to our overall health and well-being,” she said at the launch.
Suriani reinforced the importance of proactive eye care, particularly for children, stressing that access to eye care is crucial for their academic and social success.
She also acknowledged Focus Point’s numerous initiatives aimed at providing essential vision screenings and support to children and local communities.
She commended the company for helping optometry students with scholarships, internship support, and job opportunities.
Focus Point’s ongoing initiatives include free vision screenings, public health talks, and community outreach efforts. The company has screened over 26,580 individuals and donated more than 1,000 pairs of eyewear to students in need since the beginning of the year.