Bakun-murum: A RM5 million Bakun-Murum Health Clinic will be built for the benefit of 12,992 residents in 102 settlements around the area, thus expanding access to healthcare services in the interior regions of Sarawak.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the project will be carried out through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) signed today. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad witnessed the signing of the MoU by MOH secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad and Sarawak Energy's SEB Power Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Bunyak Lunyong. Also present was Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dzulkefly described this corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative by Sarawak Energy as a 'gold standard' that should be emulated by others. Under the MoU, Sarawak Energy will build a Health Clinic (Type 6-7), complete with four staff quarters, a support building block, and comprehensive outdoor facilities on a 10.41-acre site. 'This is not merely the addition of a physical building; it is an investment in human lives and well-being,' he said.
Dzulkefly highlighted that once completed, a total of 12,922 residents living in 102 settlements around Bakun and Murum will directly benefit. It will shorten the distance to healthcare and improve their quality of life and well-being. He also requested that project monitoring with the contractor be reported regularly through a special committee jointly established by the MOH and Sarawak Energy.
'We want the handover of the keys by 2028 to be realised without excuses and without compromising on quality,' he said, adding that the ministry will not wait until the building is fully completed before recruiting staff. 'When the physical progress of the project reaches 75 per cent, the MOH will immediately apply for the additional human resources required to ensure there is no gap or delay in operations once the facility is handed over,' he said.
He further mentioned that the smooth implementation of the project would require inclusive engagement with local leaders and community heads. 'This 'whole-of-society' approach will not only facilitate construction, but should also generate spillover impacts on the local economy through opportunities in its development chain,' he said.
In a separate press conference, Dzulkefly stated that the ministry would determine the number of personnel to be placed at the new health clinic. 'This clinic is extremely important because it is a facility which will provide various services, including an outpatient clinic,' he added.