KUCHING: Sarawak is developing resort areas at Damai in Santubong and Telok Melano in Sematan, with a view to them becoming recovery destinations for patients undergoing post-treatment care.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said after receiving treatment in hospitals, patients can spend another week recuperating in a peaceful, nature-based setting which would create a more conducive recovery experience.
“This is a private sector-driven initiative, not a government-funded project. Investors see the potential and are willing to put their money into providing the best resort facilities,” he said.
He said this in a press conference after officiating at the ground-breaking ceremony for Gleneagles Hospital Kuching here Monday (Feb 24).
Abang Johari said the state government is also currently developing a dual carriageway to Damai and will be extending the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system to the area.
“For Telok Melano, there is already a proposal in place, including plans for a golf course. Additionally, the Sarawak Planning Authority (SPA) approval has been granted for a resort hotel, and if I’m not mistaken, three investors are involved in this development,” he said.
Drawing a comparison to the Maldives, he noted how the island nation has become a sought-after medical retreat, which sees wealthy patients receive treatment and recover in a serene environment.
Abang Johari noted that Sarawak’s medical tourism is not limited to those from Indonesia but could also extend to Cambodia, Thailand, and beyond.
“With the right medical infrastructure, we can attract international patients seeking nature-based treatment.
“Many people travel to Thailand for such services. So when Sarawak develops similar offerings, patients can choose to come here instead,” he said.
He stressed that Sarawak’s geographical advantage, coupled with improved air connectivity, will enhance accessibility for medical tourists.
“With our own airline, AirBorneo, we can facilitate direct travel. A flight from Jakarta takes one hour and 30 minutes, Cambodia is just two hours away, and even Hong Kong is only a four-hour flight.
“Thus, if we offer good treatment, people will come to the state,” he said.
