BETONG: Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (PETRONAS’) contribution of basic medical supplies has been described as a vital contribution towards enhancing healthcare services in rural Sarawak.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the contribution reflects PETRONAS’ commitment not only to urban populations but also to rural communities.
“PETRONAS is not only helping the people in towns but also supporting those in the interior.
“This clinic remains relevant because it continues to receive 20 to 30 patients every day. The contribution of new medical equipment is very helpful,” he said.
He said this during the ‘PETRONAS Driving Life Forward Programme: Handover Ceremony of Basic Medical Supplies’ to the Nanga Tiga Health Clinic, Layar, here on Wednesday.
The Nanga Tiga Health Clinic, established in 1982, was once only accessible via a six-hour boat ride but can now be reached within 30 minutes by road, while still serving as a key healthcare centre for the surrounding community.
Uggah said that the Sarawak Government under Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) gives serious attention to the health of rural communities, in addition to focusing on agricultural and education development.
He added that several projects have been planned under the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), including RM14.5 million to upgrade facilities at the Mid Layar Health Clinic and RM15 million for the construction of three new haemodialysis centres in Spaoh, Beladin and Kabong.
“In addition, the old Spaoh Health Clinic will be replaced with a new RM36-million facility through a combined allocation from the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) and BDDA.
“Betong Hospital will also be given special attention as the existing facilities need upgrading to meet the needs of the local people,” he said.
Uggah further reminded rural residents to make full use of available clinics by going for regular health check-ups, especially for diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol.
The programme also received support from The Association of Wives of Ministers and Deputy Ministers of Sarawak (SABATI), which contributed RM5,000 to the Nanga Tiga Health Clinic.
