Sibu: Sibu Hospital is still included in the government’s plan for a phased upgrade from a district hospital to a regional referral hospital, on par with the Sarawak General Hospital in Kuching, said Sibu Member of Parliament Oscar Ling Chai Yew. He stated that the primary element of this upgrade involves the construction of a new Sibu Hospital building under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), with an estimated cost of RM1 billion, focusing on cancer treatment and the establishment of an Oncology Department.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, although the project was not highlighted in Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s budget speech, it remains included in Budget 2026. The budget speech serves as a brief summary, whereas the complete details are available in the official budget document. Following the announcement of Budget 2026, the primary concerns for the people of Sibu revolve around the development of Sibu Hospital, health facilities like clinics, and infrastructure projects in the region.
Ling mentioned that the Cardiac Intervention Unit for Sibu Hospital has been approved, making it one of three locations in Sarawak, along with Bintulu and Miri, to receive this approval. However, the construction of the cardiac operating room is pending due to the need for a suitable location amidst space constraints.
Furthermore, Ling noted that a project for the temporary relocation of the Oya Health Clinic is being planned, with the Ministry of Health agreeing that the existing location is apt for redevelopment due to its strategic position. He emphasized that despite the lack of specific mention of medical projects in Sibu within Budget 2026, the approved development plans will still move forward.
Among the significant projects related to Sibu are the MADANI Submarine Cable Project, valued at RM2 billion, aimed at improving internet services, and the upgrade of several sections of the Pan Borneo Highway, which costs RM350 million. Ling also highlighted that his service centre has allocated nearly RM1 million over the past two years to establish a High Dependency Unit for neurosurgery patients at Sibu Hospital, benefiting stroke patients and those with brain cancer.
Ling expressed support for the health sector reforms introduced by the Ministry of Health Malaysia through Budget 2026, which includes RM144 million to enhance public-private sector cooperation. This initiative allows patients to be referred to military, university, and private hospitals with costs covered by the government, ensuring essential out-patient treatment services when Sibu Hospital’s facilities are insufficient.