13MP: Sarawak needs RM7.89 bln to build, upgrade health facilities, says Premier

KUCHING (Oct 30): Sarawak requires RM7.89 billion for the construction of new health facilities as well as upgrading, repairing and maintenance of existing health facilities in the state.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that the state continues to face a shortage of health facilities and medical experts.

“Currently, there are six hospitals, 208 health clinics, and 67 quarters at clinics that need repairs.

“Additionally, two regional pharmacy offices require replacement, and 206 outdated clinics need immediate attention,” he said.

Abang Johari’s text speech was read by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas during the engagement session for the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), organised by the federal Ministry of Economy, which was attended by its Minister Rafizi Ramli.

Furthermore, Abang Johari emphasised the urgent need for attention in educational infrastructure, mentioning that 460 schools still have dilapidated buildings categorised as scale 6 and 7 that have yet to be repaired.

Additionally, 24 secondary schools and 585 primary schools lack their own science laboratory facilities.

“Overall, the Sarawak government requires RM5.2 billion to address the issue of dilapidated schools, and RM54 million to tackle the shortage of science lab facilities,” he said.

On the initiative for Native Customary Rights (NCR) land perimeter survey, Abang Johari said that perimeter measurements and individual lot surveys must continue.

In the 13MP, a total of RM140 million is needed for perimeter surveys of 190,000 hectares and individual lot surveys of 154,000 hectares.

“This programme is crucial for identifying and validating the boundaries of legitimate NCR land, ensuring that the land ownership rights of the Bumiputera community are protected,” he added.