KOTA KINABALU: The federal government, in collaboration with the Sabah government, is committed to enhancing the quality of hospital and health clinic services to ensure the well-being of the people in the region. State Community Development and People’s Wellbeing Minister Datuk James Ratib emphasized that this initiative involves continuous financial support from the federal government to construct new facilities and upgrade existing ones across Sabah.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, a total of 25 new health clinics are currently under construction in Sabah, with a total cost of RM18.8 million. These clinics are expected to be completed by this month. Additionally, upgrades to electrical systems have been completed at 33 health clinics, costing approximately RM2.7 million. This year, RM10 million has been allocated for upgrading the buildings of 14 health clinics to enhance comfort for all users.
The government has also prioritized the reconstruction of the health clinic in Kampung Tangkarason, Beluran,
which was destroyed by a fire earlier this year. The reconstruction, costing nearly RM1 million, is 88% complete and expected to be ready by November 30. The facility will be equipped with medical and non-medical equipment valued at an estimated RM450,000. Plans are also in place to build a twin quarters for clinic staff next year at an estimated cost of RM500,000.
Under the ‘Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat’ (ANMS), the government is committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle among Malaysians, including those in Sabah. RM1.1 million has been allocated this year for upgrading and repairing the ANMS 2.0 wellness hub in Sabah. Efforts to improve oral health in rural areas are also underway, with the government procuring vehicles and equipment for four mobile dental teams in Sabah at a cost of RM1.8 million.
James Ratib highlighted the need for RM208 million to replace, add, and procure medical assets for 24 government hospitals and health clinics across Sabah. This includes acquiring 50 four-wheel-drive ambulan
ces, 120 ambulance vans, and four boat ambulances for specific health clinics, along with critical medical equipment such as ultrasound machines and cardiac defibrillators.
He stressed the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships to enhance healthcare services in Sabah, citing past collaborations during the COVID-19 pandemic as examples of effective partnerships. These collaborations involved outsourcing medical services, particularly surgeries or procedures for non-COVID-19 patients, with an allocation of RM49 million.
Meanwhile, Sammie Liew, chairman of Persatuan Jalinan Kasih Harapan Rakyat Sabah, noted that the organization has actively collaborated with government health clinics and hospitals to promote healthcare awareness in rural communities. The Ministry of Health conducts various health campaigns, including heart disease prevention programs, blood donation drives, and cancer awareness initiatives.
Hendica Johhni, a plantation worker from Paitan, Beluran, expressed hope for the rein
statement of community clinics and mobile health clinics to improve healthcare access for rural residents. Government pensioner Binan Japar also emphasized the need for increased staffing in critical hospital zones to meet current demands and ensure immediate treatment for critically ill patients.