Yayasan Jantung Sarawak donates MRI machine to Sibu Hospital

Organising chairman Rory Wong (fourth right) presents a souvenir to Tiang (second left) at the countdown 2024.

SIBU, Jan 1: Sibu residents will no longer need to go elsewhere for specialised diagnostic procedures as Sibu Hospital will be equipped with a refurbished Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine.

“The Ministry of Health has approved (the acquisition of) a refurbished Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine for Sibu Hospital. The machine is a donation by Yayasan Jantung Sarawak (YJS) costing RM2,020,000.00. It was approved on October 25, 2023,”said Datuk Michael Tiang.

Speaking at New Year 2024 countdown last night, the Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government said MoH has also approved the upgrading of the existing site to facilitate the smooth installation and operation of the machine.

The project is scheduled to commence in early 2024 and will take about five months to complete.

“The availability of an MRI machine in Sibu Hospital will bring about immense benefits for our community. It will reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for specialised diagnostic procedures,” Tiang stressed.

He said the project is part of the government’s commitment to improve the health system in Sibu because the health system can be considered the backbone of economic growth.

“The MRI machine reflects our commitment to continuously invest in the well-being and healthcare infrastructure of our community,” he added.

Meanwhile Tiang also urged the public to continue to be vigilant and stay safe due to the surge in Covid-19 cases in the country.

He however said that the situation is under control and does not burden the existing health facilities.

Also speaking at the event was Sibu Municipal Council chairman Clarence Ting.

The highlight of the countdown was a 10-minute fireworks display at the town square. — DayakDaily