KUCHING: The federal government has approved a total allocation of RM2.43 million to enhance healthcare services and research capabilities at the Clinical Research Centre (CRC) here, including upgrades to the new medical equipment for maternal-foetal care at Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
Health Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, said RM930,000 has been allocated to upgrade infrastructure at the CRC to support the increasing volume of clinical trials, particularly in oncology research, which has positioned the centre as a key player in clinical research.
“The upgrading works are necessary to ensure the CRC continues to function efficiently as a leading oncology research centre, in line with the growing demand for clinical trials,” he said in his Facebook post after his official working visit to the hospital recently.
He added that the remaining RM1.5 million will be used to procure a high-end ultrasound system for the Maternal-Foetal Medicine Unit, fulfilling a commitment made during his previous visit.
“This acquisition follows the historic success of SGH in performing prenatal Spina Bifida surgery. The new equipment will eliminate the need to borrow machines, and allow for safer, real-time monitoring during complex procedures,” he said.
Dr Dzulkefly said the investments reflect the MADANI government’s commitment to translating healthcare aspirations into tangible improvements for the people.
“These improvements are not just upgrades in infrastructure and technology, but strategic steps to strengthen the quality of care for the people of Sarawak and reinforce Malaysia’s standing in global clinical research,” he said.
The ministry, he added, will continue to ensure that every ringgit spent delivers meaningful impact to the national healthcare ecosystem.
Meanwhile, he also officiated the opening of the new Clinical Research Malaysia (CRM) Sarawak branch office at Kozi Square, as well as the launch of the CRM Annual Report 2025 and the IQVIA White Paper.
“The launch of the IQVIA White Paper titled ‘Malaysia: The New Destination for Early Phase Trials’ is particularly significant as it recognises our readiness in terms of infrastructure and expertise at the international level.
“This is demonstrated by SGH, which has now emerged as a leading national oncology research centre with multiple successful First-in-Human (FIH) clinical trial achievements,” he said.
He also said that Sarawak’s outstanding progress is strongly supported by CRM’s investments.
“The new office at Kozi Square now houses 34 staff members, making it the largest CRM team in Malaysia. In fact, the RM6.5-million annual allocation dedicated specifically to Sarawak reflects our serious commitment to developing local research talent and infrastructure,” he said.
In the CRM Annual Report 2025, he said overall, it recorded highly encouraging progress, with 46 per cent of sponsored clinical studies successfully conducted in Ministry of Health facilities.
“This expansion of research sites is crucial as it provides patients access to new and innovative treatments and therapies for critical illnesses.
“Congratulations to all clinical researchers, medical specialists, and patients who have made this agenda a success.
“The MADANI government will continue to drive this clinical research ecosystem to ensure Malaysia remains competitive as a leading regional destination, while delivering added value and the best quality of care for the people,” he said.
