KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian hails the establishment of 24-hour clinics, highlighting their role in improving access to healthcare for the public.
Dr Sim, who also serves as the Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, said that setting up such clinics within community neighbourhoods would help ease congestion at government healthcare facilities.
He noted that public clinics often experience heavy traffic, particularly during public holidays, and 24-hour clinics could provide a viable alternative for patients seeking medical attention during those peak times.
“Therefore, I think this (24-hour clinic) is very good as the doctors would be able to serve the local community better with their services,” he said in his speech during the launch of Valiant Medical Clinic at Batu Kawa New Township here on Saturday.
He also stressed the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in the healthcare sector to ensure delivering the best medical services to the people.
Dr Sim emphasised that public healthcare, under the Ministry of Health (MOH), should collaborate closely with the private sector to enhance healthcare delivery.
“This public-private partnerships, including the establishment of 24-hour clinics, is essential,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr Allan Png of Valiant Medical Clinic said there are plans to establish four more 24-hour clinics in the near future.
“This is to ensure accessible, convenient, and affordable healthcare to even more neighbourhoods,” said Dr Png.
With doctors of different backgrounds and specific experiences in areas like primary care, medical anesthesiology, geriatrics, emergency medicine and paediatrics, he assures that the diversity equips the team of doctors with a unique strength, a team that complements one another and is ready to care for patients of all ages and conditions.
“So whether it’s a young child needing attention, an elderly person requiring long-term care, or someone in urgent need, we are confident that we are ready to provide comprehensive and patient-centred care,” he said.
