By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Oct 18: Sarawak has allocated RM400 million from its own funds for a tropical infectious disease research centre in Samarahan, while sending students overseas for advanced training to strengthen its research capabilities, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) was part of Sarawak’s efforts to strengthen its capacity to study tropical infectious diseases and prepare for potential future outbreaks following the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We now have medical experts and scientists who will study tropical infectious diseases so that we can be better prepared.
“If such diseases emerge in the future, we will be prepared, including with medicines,” he said at the launch of the ‘Satu Pemimpin, Satu Kampung’ programme in Kampung Gedong today, which was livestreamed on the Sarawak Public Communication Unit’s (UKAS) Facebook page.
Abang Johari said Sarawak had sent students to pursue postgraduate studies in medicine and drug development, including at master’s level, as part of efforts to build local expertise.
He added that another candidate would be sent to the London Tropical Disease Centre to pursue doctoral research.
He said these efforts were intended to strengthen Sarawak’s scientific expertise and improve its preparedness for future infectious disease threats.
Abang Johari also said Sarawak had a mobile research centre that could help experts advise communities on monitoring and managing the spread of infectious diseases.
He said he had met with experts at Kampung Lubok Bunting earlier that morning, highlighting the role of scientific research in improving public awareness and preparedness. — DayakDaily
