By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Aug 10: The RM300 million Sarawak Infectious Disease Centre (SIDC) is nearing completion as the State strengthens its research capabilities to prepare for future disease threats, including potential outbreaks as unexpected as Covid-19.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the centre would support research into tropical diseases while Sarawak continued to strengthen its healthcare standards through collaboration with leading hospitals and medical faculties worldwide.
“During Covid-19 pandemic, nobody expected it to come, and it was something new, a new disease.
“So maybe through research, you can find vaccines that can solve problems of diseases that come from tropical areas,” he said during a press conference after the groundbreaking ceremony for Regency Specialist Hospital Kuching at Northbank here today.
Abang Johari said the Sarawak government had invested RM300 million in the centre and was working with well-known hospitals and medical faculties around the world to strengthen its expertise.
“We take the best. This is part of our effort to improve the standard of healthcare,” he said.
Earlier in his speech at the groundbreaking ceremony, Abang Johari said the centre could collaborate with private healthcare groups, including the upcoming Regency Specialist Hospital Kuching, in researching tropical diseases and exploring the potential of Sarawak’s biodiversity as a source for research.
He said such partnerships could also attract medical professionals to Sarawak and encourage greater participation in research activities.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (Tourism) Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng; HMI Medical Group Chief Executive Officer Chin Wei Jia; HMI Executive Chairman and Managing Director Dr Gan See Khem; HMI Medical hospitals in Malaysia’s Board of Directors member Dr Richard Chew Kim Huat; and HMI Malaysia Chief Executive Officer Stanley Lam. — DayakDaily
