By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Jan 15: The Pan Borneo Highway in Sarawak, along with the ongoing construction in Sabah, plays a crucial role in improving access to healthcare services across the Borneo region.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised this necessity, noting that Sarawak and Sabah are separated from Peninsular Malaysia, where major healthcare facilities and specialists are concentrated, by the South China Sea.
“We need to adjust our policies to provide the best services for the people. Specialists are essential to delivering healthcare to Sabah and Sarawak, which are part of the same region.
“Enhanced land and air connectivity is vital for this purpose. Therefore, the Pan Borneo Highway is critical to improving accessibility. We can be connected by land and air,” he stated during the inauguration of the Prima Health Centre at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak’s (Unimas) Teaching Hospital in Kota Samarahan today.
Highlighting the impact of improved infrastructure, Abang Johari noted that the journey from Betong to Kuching now takes only two hours via the coastal road, compared to three hours previously.
This advancement makes it significantly easier for people to access facilities like the Prima Health Centre.
“Travelling to Peninsular Malaysia for treatment incurs substantial costs, from airfare to accommodation. Having this Centre here will ease the financial burden on the people,” he added.
The Prima Health Centre began offering services to the public on Nov 4, 2024, as part of Phase 1 of the Unimas Teaching Hospital project. Phase 2 will focus on completing the main Teaching Hospital building (HPUNIMAS).
In addition to medical services, the Centre serves as a hub for teaching, learning, and hands-on training for Unimas medical students. This initiative aligns with efforts to produce high-quality medical graduates and integrates education, research, and healthcare services.
It also plays a significant role in expanding access to quality healthcare, particularly benefiting communities in Samarahan, Kuching, and Serian.
With the launching of the Centre, Abang Johari reaffirmed the Sarawak government’s commitment to advancing the healthcare sector, referencing the development of the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre and the Sarawak Cancer Centre.
“Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian is actively engaging with stakeholders to improve healthcare services in Sarawak.
“This centre will also support both public and private clinics, directly benefiting Samarahan, especially with the ongoing construction of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) network and major infrastructure projects like bridges to improve connectivity across the region. Despite the significant investment, this infrastructure will offer seamless access for individuals seeking medical treatment, pursuing education, and visiting the city,” he explained.
Abang Johari also highlighted the importance of digitalisation in healthcare, particularly as Sarawak’s ageing population—16 per cent of whom will be aged 60 and above—requires sustained medical support.
“This Centre and the Teaching Hospital can assist patients through advanced technology. For example, a modern X-ray machine can instantly produce images on film and screen with just a click,” he shared.
Looking ahead, Abang Johari suggested that patient data could be analysed using artificial intelligence (AI) to detect diseases and recommend tailored treatments.
“Advanced technologies, machines, and devices will significantly enhance our healthcare services. With a system that is half human and half machine. Unimas can continue to explore and innovate in this area,” he added.
Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Ts Mustapha Sakmud, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang, Unimas board of director chairman Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Sulong Matjeraie and Unimas vice chancellor Prof Dr Ahmad Hata Rasit were among those present. — DayakDaily
