By Nur Ashikin Louis
LAWAS, May 27: Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg has proposed the extension of Lawas Hospital during his visit here today.
He said he has suggested to the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) Sarawak to inform the Ministry of Health (MOH) to identify the availability of land surrounding the ongoing construction of the hospital.
“The remaining unused land size would be about two acres, which is insufficient because the site also experiences soil erosion.
“Thus, I have proposed a land extension because I think the initial 76-bed capacity to ward 20 male patients, 20 female patients, and 20 maternity patients is not enough.
“They need to have reserve land to cater for additional wards or a new building,” he said during a press conference after chairing the State Development Coordination Committee Meeting.
Other ongoing projects in Lawas include the construction of the iconic Bandar Lawas Bridge and the Lawas Administrative Office.
Abang Johari further noted that the projects may have faced a delay or outstanding progress, but at least the construction has begun, stating that the problems are mainly due to a shortage of manpower to cater for too many projects in Limbang and Lawas.
He said the Premier’s Department Unit under Sarawak Secretary would resolve this matter.
He further said the region had allowed the import of cement for the northern region, including Miri, to resolve the issue of construction material problem.
Additionally, Abang Johari pointed out that the Sarawak government is willing to come in and assist the federal government in repairing and building new dilapidated schools in Limbang and Lawas with an expenditure of over RM100 million.
As of April 30 this year, there are 226 projects implemented in the Limbang division. Of these, 57 have been completed, 82 are under various stages of implementation, and 81 are still under the planning stage. — DayakDaily
