SIBU: Sibu Division continues to be given a strategic role in Sarawak’s development agenda, especially as a regional health hub as the state government implements a phased approach to decentralising specialist services.
Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, said the development of satellite centres outside Kuching is an important step to ensure that quality health services can be enjoyed more evenly throughout the state, with Sibu being one of the main components for the central region of Sarawak.
According to him, the state government is currently in the phase of strengthening regional hubs so that dependence on Kuching can be reduced, thus speeding up the people’s access to public services, especially in the health sector.
“Sibu plays an important role in this strategy. Specialist services are being decentralised so that more treatment can be provided at the local level, without the need for all cases to be referred to Kuching,” he said at the Sibu District Community and Tribal Head (KMKK) Appointment Certificate Presentation at a prominent hotel her today.
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, explained that among the efforts being planned and implemented in Sibu, include improving hospital facilities, providing specialist medical equipment, and developing satellite healthcare centres to cater to the needs of the population in the central region.
He said the Sarawak Government’s long-term goal is to ensure that most medical cases can be handled locally, while only complex cases are referred to the main centre in Kuching.
“This approach requires time, continuous investment and the development of local talent. It is not just about constructing buildings, but developing expertise and ensuring that quality workforce remains in this area,” he said.
He also drew comparisons with the development of the health system in Kuching before, which in the early stages depended heavily on referrals to Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
“Today, Kuching is much more self-sufficient as a result of consistent investment over the years. The same model is now being applied in other cities such as Sibu,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Sim stressed the importance of balanced regional development to ensure Sarawak’s overall progress, while stressing that growth cannot be concentrated in just one city.
“The satellite centre ensures that all areas move forward together and no one is left behind,” he said.
Touching on the role of KMKK, he said the group is an important link between the government and the people at the grassroots level, especially in ensuring that the development agenda can be delivered effectively.
“You represent the Sarawak Government and your role is very important in helping us reach the people and ensure that government policies and services reach the grassroots level,” he said, hoping that KMKK will continue to carry out their responsibilities with full commitment.
Sibu Division Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman and Sibu District Officer Tsong Chow Choon presented certificates of appointment to more than 100 KMKK from the Pelawan, Bukit Assek, Bawang Assan and Dudong constituencies, witnessed by Dr Sim.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Bukit Assek assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek, political secretary to the Premier William Anut, Sibu Division Iban Paramount Chief Temenggong Stanley Gramong Bandar, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh, were among those present.
