By Amanda L
KUCHING, Dec 14: The Sarawak government is ramping up programmes to retain medical specialists, with Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian stressing that motivated specialists are essential for delivering quality healthcare across the State.
Speaking at the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Sarawak anniversary dinner at a hotel here on Saturday (Dec 13), Dr Sim highlighted that retaining specialists is about more than simply filling vacancies. He said it ensures medical professionals are committed to making meaningful contributions to Sarawak’s healthcare system.
“The people who take on these specialist roles must share our values and commitment. It’s not just about filling positions—it’s about ensuring they are motivated to contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s healthcare system,” he said.
To support this, Dr Sim outlined ongoing initiatives to provide structured career pathways, research opportunities, and professional development for both local and incoming specialists, fostering a motivated and skilled workforce.
He further explained that the State is prioritising the deployment of specialists in critical areas such as cardiology, oncology, and surgical care, while also expanding coverage to rural hospitals and clinics to improve healthcare access across Sarawak.
“Retaining talent is essential. We need to ensure specialists are supported, can develop their careers, and continue delivering innovative healthcare services to Sarawakians,” he added.
He emphasised that these retention programmes complement broader State healthcare strategies, including hospital upgrades, rural clinic expansions, and long-term planning under the Sarawak Public Health Master Plan 2050, reinforcing the government’s commitment to a sustainable and resilient healthcare system. — DayakDaily
