Kuala Lumpur:The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health has urged the Ministry of Health to consider providing dignified schemes or incentives for medical officers assigned to Sabah and Sarawak. This proposal arises from concerns about medical officers failing to report for duty in these regions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, committee member Young Syefura Othman highlighted the issue, noting that hospitals in Sabah and Sarawak are sometimes operating with only three medical officers. She emphasized that allowances and incentives may be factors contributing to this problem and urged the Ministry to take action.

Young Syefura, who is also the Bentong Member of Parliament, made these remarks while concluding the debate on the committee's report in the Dewan Rakyat. The report followed a working visit to Sabah focused on strengthening healthcare service delivery and facilities.

The committee also proposed implementing mobile services through networks of hospitals, health clinics, and dental clinics to ensure accessibility for residents. Young Syefura stressed that health planning in Sabah should be based on the region's unique geographical and population needs rather than a uniform approach.

Regarding the Papar Hospital upgrading project, she pointed out the importance of managing time extensions and evaluating contractor performance to ensure timely project completion. Committee chairman Suhaizan Kaiat noted that the project had been granted 11 extensions totaling 2,108 days and that a new contractor would be appointed.

During the session, Suhaizan presented 12 recommendations to enhance Sabah's healthcare system, focusing on facilities, infrastructure, human resources, digitalization, and strategic development. These recommendations include prioritizing the maintenance and replacement of critical health assets and increasing the capacity of primary healthcare facilities. Suhaizan emphasized the need to translate plans into tangible projects and services that benefit the people.