KUCHING, March 9: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has proposed that Sarawak could emerge as a prominent destination for oral treatment in the region, leveraging the State’s high standards of dental care services and competitive pricing.
Dr Sim, also the Minister of Public Health, Housing, and Local Government, expressed confidence in the viability of such services once robust travel infrastructure connecting Kuching with other regional destinations, particularly in Indonesia and Australia, is established.
“I hope we can address some of the existing gaps once Sarawak acquires MASWing from the federal government,” he remarked while officiating at the 12th Borneo Dental Congress and Trade Exhibition on behalf of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Dr Sim emphasised the necessity of an independent air infrastructure to facilitate the influx of people, including tourists and business travelers, into Sarawak.
“With four private hospitals in the city, healthcare in Kuching has garnered popularity among neighboring countries, particularly West Kalimantan,” he noted, suggesting that easy access, whether by air or overland, could unlock the market potential of other countries in the Asian-Oceania region.
Dr Sim is optimistic about the growth prospects of Sarawak’s dental care industry in the coming decade, citing the State’s burgeoning economy and the potential of health and wellness care and medical research sectors.
The 12th Borneo Dental Congress and Trade Exhibition saw participation from 607 delegates, including specialists, dentists, and auxiliary staff from various countries such as Singapore, Brunei, Australia, Hong Kong, China, Slovenia, Italy, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, and Malaysia.
Among the attendees were Deputy Director of Health Sarawak Dr Aminuddin Mohd Natar, Malaysia Dental Association (MDA) President Dr Mas Suryalis Ahmad, and 12th BDC organizing chairman Dr Mary Chieng Ching Ru. — DayakDaily
