KAPIT: Improving rural healthcare infrastructure continues to be a key priority for the Sarawak Government, with a strong focus on ensuring that remote communities, such as those in this area, have access to comprehensive and high-quality healthcare services.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Native Law and Customs), Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, said the state government remains committed towards improving healthcare facilities, including the construction and upgrading of clinics, deployment of medical personnel, and implementation of outreach health programmes for rural communities.
According to him, geographical challenges, logistical issues, and lack of basic facilities should not prevent rural residents from receiving quality treatment.
Therefore, efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and workforce in the interior areas will continue to be a priority, he said during the Ramah Mesra session held here in conjunction with the official visit of the Sarawak Health Director, Dr Veronica Lugah, on Thursday.
He also shared about a recent visit by Deputy Health Minister, Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, and Deputy Secretary-General (Finance) of the Health Ministry, Datuk Zahrul Hakim Abdullah, during which several key issues were raised.
These included the urgent need to increase healthcare staffing, improve workforce capacity and expertise in local facilities, and upgrade Kapit Hospital’s infrastructure, which requires immediate attention.
“We hope this visit not only raises awareness but also prompts follow-up action from the federal government to support Sarawak’s healthcare development aspirations in Kapit,” Jamit stressed.
The Bukit Goram Assemblyman also emphasised that the rural health agenda must not be delayed.
Improving healthcare is not a luxury; it is a basic necessity, and this need must be fulfilled regardless of where the people live, including here in Kapit, he added.
