By DayakDaily Team
BETONG, Sept 23: The proposed construction of a new Standard Type 3 Health Clinic (KK3) in Betong is expected to significantly ease pressure on the Betong Hospital Outpatient Department by expanding capacity for outpatient treatment and primary healthcare services.
Betong Member of Parliament Dato Dr Richard Rapu visited the proposed project site and the old block of the Betong Divisional Health Office on Tuesday (Sept 22) to assess the condition of existing facilities and review the need for expanded healthcare infrastructure in the area.
According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, the site visit was followed by an engagement session organised by the Ministry of Health Malaysia in collaboration with the Betong Divisional Health Office.
The session focused on evaluating healthcare service requirements, site suitability and technical considerations for the proposed development.
Betong Divisional health officer Dr Mohamad Norhaizam said the town currently does not have a Standard Type 3 Health Clinic, resulting in residents relying heavily on the Betong Hospital Outpatient Department for basic healthcare services.
He noted that population growth and the continued development of Betong have led to rising demand for outpatient care, placing increasing strain on existing healthcare facilities.
“The proposed development is crucial to enhancing healthcare service capacity and providing residents with greater access to primary medical care,” he said.
In addition to the new health clinic, the proposal includes the construction of a new Betong Divisional Health Office, staff quarters comprising 18 Class F units, and supporting infrastructure involving civil, mechanical and electrical works.
The facility is expected to benefit not only residents in Betong town but also communities in Spaoh and Debak, both of which fall within the wider Betong District.
The proposed project site covers approximately 10,319 square metres.
Currently in the preliminary planning stage, the project is undergoing assessments on facility requirements, site suitability and technical specifications through ongoing consultations with relevant stakeholders.
During the visit, Dr Richard urged the agencies involved to thoroughly evaluate all operational and technical requirements at the planning stage to ensure smooth implementation and that the completed project effectively addresses the healthcare needs of the community.
The engagement session also served as a platform for inter-agency coordination, enabling stakeholders to align project requirements and planning priorities before the proposal advances to its next phase. — DayakDaily
