By Ashley Sim and Marlynda Meraw
KUCHING, Feb 28: Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has expressed his vision for the Sarawak Heart Centre, stating that with increased funding and autonomy, the facility could rank among the top 10 cardiology hospitals in the Asia-Pacific region.
For the record, the Sarawak Heart Centre of Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) has been recognised as one of the ‘Best Specialised Hospitals’ in the Asia Pacific region for the year 2023 by Newsweek, an American weekly news magazine.
Ranked 48 on the list of 100, it is the only public hospital from Malaysia acknowledged for specialised cardiological services.
“Last year, our Heart Centre, (according to) Newsweek, said that we are top 100 in the Asia-Pacific (region). Give us the opportunity, a lot of Sarawakians can do that. If the federal government gives us enough money, we could be in the top 10,” Dr Sim said during his speech at the Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Batu Kitang 8th Anniversary and Chinese New Year Gala Dinner, which took place last night (Feb 27) at a restaurant here.
Dr Sim, who is also Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, highlighted that the Sarawak Heart Centre was the only public hospital from Malaysia to be included in the top 100 list.
“We (the Sarawak Heart Centre) are not the biggest (in Malaysia). We are not the oldest, the oldest is in Penang (but) they are not in the top 100.
“So, we can do it. Give us the opportunity, give us our power back. In the last 22 years, we (the Sarawak Heart Centre) have treated 245,000 people, which is a lot,” he added.
The Deputy Premier also took the opportunity to highlight the significance of providing ongoing support for Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, noting the positive impact of his policies on Sarawak’s revenue and reputation.
Meanwhile, in his speech, Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang emphasised the importance of more health facilities, health autonomy from the federal government, a stable government, and united advocacy for Sarawak’s rights.
The event was attended by various dignitaries and officials, including Sarawak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) president Dato Sri Abang Abdul Karim Tun Openg and Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap. — DayakDaily
