Sebatik: The Ministry of Health will use the allocation for dilapidated clinics to rebuild the Sungai Tamang Health Clinic, which was supposed to be built through the 11th Malaysia Plan allocation in Rolling Plan 1. Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that approximately RM1 million to RM1.5 million from the dilapidated clinic allocation provided by the MADANI government will be allocated for the construction of the Type 6 health clinic before mid-2026.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Dzulkefly emphasized the urgency of the project, noting that the construction time will be accelerated with the allocation given by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Sungai Tamang Health Clinic, which has been operational since 1969, serves 25,000 residents. The Minister highlighted the importance of improving facilities, particularly in rural areas, to ensure universal health coverage where no one is left behind.

Dzulkefly conveyed this information to reporters after the inauguration of the new building of Sungai Imam Rural Clinic in Merotai. He also mentioned that improvements to health clinic facilities on Pulau Sebatik will include supplying ambulance boats for use by Ministry of Health personnel.

In addition, the Minister discussed the reconstruction of the Sungai Imam Rural Clinic, which has been transformed from a wooden structure to a concrete building. The old building was demolished on April 1, 2024, and the new clinic was constructed with an allocation of RM600,000, becoming operational on December 31, 2024. This clinic serves 16,222 residents.

Dzulkefly stated his commitment to taking a more assertive approach to repairing dilapidated clinics in Sabah and across Malaysia. He emphasized his focus on Sabah’s health development, aligning with the spirit of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 to bridge the gap in healthcare services.

The Minister highlighted his frequent visits to Sabah, with the current visit being his seventh this year. His previous visit in August included stops in several East Sabah districts such as Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Beluran, Kunak, Semporna, Lahad Datu, and Tawau. Dzulkefly visited six areas involving 16 health facilities to ensure they provide the best service to the people and to check on the welfare of health workers.