Unique Sarawakian plants can position state as global cancer treatment hub, says Premier

KOTA SAMARAHAN (Jan 17): Sarawak has the potential to become a global hub for cancer treatment, thanks to unique compounds found in plants native to the state, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Samarahan Boulevard project under the Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (IRSDA) in front of Masjid Al-Muttaqin, he said the development marks the start of comprehensive planning for Samarahan and its surrounding areas.

“This 1,000-acre green area to be planted with our native plants will be a major attraction for visitors as well as a hub for scientific research. Some of these plants contain compounds that can help in cancer treatment.

“I will leave the details to the doctors, who are the experts, but there are already compounds in Sarawak’s flora that specialists can extract to aid in treating cancer.

“Imagine if this is proven with the right evidence, people from around the world would come to Sarawak for cancer treatment,” he said.

Abang Johari said the state government has approved the construction of a dedicated cancer centre in Samarahan in collaboration with Kuala Lumpur.

The state will front the initial construction costs, which Kuala Lumpur will reimburse later, and provide RM500 million for cancer treatment equipment.

“This is part of our larger vision to develop southern Sarawak into a modern city with first-class infrastructure, healthcare, and education. We want to provide top-notch services not only to Sarawakians,” he said.

On the boulevard, Abang Johari said it is part of a broader plan to create over 1,000 acres of green space that will be legally protected from commercial or residential development.

The area will feature extensive jogging and walking paths and native trees, including belian, or ironwood.

“In our development, humans also need recreational spaces. Without them, people get stressed, and when stressed, they cannot use their energy effectively or think clearly,” he said.

He added that the green space would complement other infrastructure developments in southern Sarawak.

“Kuching and Samarahan are becoming almost indistinguishable in terms of infrastructure. We are planning first-class highways connecting Munggu Kopi, Serian, Gedong, Rembus, Beliong, Sebuyau, and Sejingkat, ensuring seamless connectivity and opening up the region for growth,” he said.

Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s investments in technology-driven industries.

The state is producing semiconductors and analog chips, with local expertise in chip design, positioning Sarawak as a key player in global technology innovation.

He noted that renewable energy projects, including power exports to Indonesia, Brunei, Sabah, Peninsular Malaysia, and Singapore, further strengthen Sarawak’s position in the Asean region.