Premier: Putrajaya officially approves setting up of Sarawak Cancer Centre in Kota Samarahan

KUCHING (July 10): The federal government has officially approved the establishment of the Sarawak Cancer Centre in Kota Samarahan, according to Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Following this development, Abang Johari said the Sarawak government will proceed with the construction, which is estimated to cost over RM1 billion.

The project will be funded initially from the state’s coffers, with the federal government reimbursing the amount as welfare assistance later, he added.

“I just got the news today (yesterday). I was informed that the federal government has agreed for us to set up our cancer centre.

“The federal government said we build it first and then they will pay us later,” he said during the during the official opening and gala dinner for the Eighth Asia Pacific Conference on Public Health (APCPH) held at a local hotel last night.

Abang Johari said the state government has decided to provide initial financing for the project as it is vital for the state to have a cancer centre.

“I believe not all Sarawakians can fork out the expenses to travel frequently to Peninsular Malaysia for treatment. Travelling there is costly for some Sarawakians.

“Those living in Sabah and Kalimantan who want to seek treatment also need not travel by air; they can travel by road to Sarawak for the purpose as well,” he said.

Also present at the event were APCPH vice chairman Dr Tahir Aris, Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang, Kuching South Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng and other officials.