Sarawak needs more physiotherapists, says Deputy Premier

SIBU (March 14): Sarawak needs more physiotherapists as government hospitals across the state currently have only 24 positions in the field, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

The State Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government said only 18 of these positions are currently filled, while the rest remain vacant.

For assistant positions, he said there are about 240 posts, of which around 180 have been filled.

“This is better than having none at all, but it still shows there is a wide gap and many opportunities for development.

“I believe there are still many things we can do,” he said when officiating the grand opening of PMG Physio here.

Dr Sim described the physiotherapy sector as a ‘blue ocean’ as it remains underexplored despite its significant potential within the healthcare system.

He said many people still perceive physiotherapy as treatment limited to injuries or movement problems, although the field is much broader.

“Physiotherapy covers many aspects including paediatric and geriatric care, neurological rehabilitation after stroke, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, oncology rehabilitation, as well as cognitive rehabilitation,” he said.

Commenting on PMG Healthcare, he expressed confidence that the Sarawak-based healthcare network has the potential to grow into the largest integrated medical network in Malaysia, even though it started in Borneo.

He said PMG’s journey reflects how initiatives that begin in Sarawak can grow into major healthcare networks through commitment, shared values and the collective efforts of individuals who choose to build their future in the state.

“I look forward to your expansion not only to become the largest network but also the largest integrated medical network in Malaysia, starting from the jungles of Borneo,” he said.

According to Dr Sim, PMG started with a single pharmacy around 2012 and has since grown rapidly with hundreds of branches and various healthcare facilities.

“More than 10 years ago, around 2012, PMG began with a pharmacy. In 2013, they opened a clinic in Sri Aman as well as a dental clinic.

“Today PMG has more than 200 pharmacies, 40 clinics in Sarawak, eight dental clinics and now two physiotherapy centres. This is truly an extraordinary achievement,” he said.

Dr Sim also praised the group’s willingness to explore new technologies, including the use of robotic rehabilitation systems in physiotherapy to help improve patients’ quality of life.

Also present were PMG Healthcare Managing Director Dr Chieng King Chong, Deputy Managing Director Andrew Wong Pak Ung, Chief Pharmacist Ling Hung Leong, and Director of Physiotherapy Everlynn Hii Yi Xuan.