KUCHING: Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, has called on Sarawakians studying and working abroad to return home and contribute to the state’s growth, particularly in the medical sector.
Speaking at the Public Medicare Group (PMG) and Ikhlas Capital Strategic Partnership signing ceremony here today (Feb 26), Dr Sim highlighted the urgent need for skilled professionals in Sarawak, especially in the healthcare industry.
He noted that while many Sarawakians have achieved success abroad, their expertise is crucial for the state’s development.
“In recent years, we have seen many young Sarawakians migrating to countries like Australia and the UK. As a result, the number of young doctors registered in Malaysia has dropped by 50 per cent in the last five years,” he said.
Dr Sim, who previously worked in Australia before returning to serve in Sarawak, emphasised the importance of contributing to one’s homeland despite financial differences.
“I could have continued earning millions in Australia, but I chose to come back because I wanted to make a real difference. Over the past 20 years, 245,000 Sarawakians have benefited from our heart centre,” he said.
He acknowledged that salaries in Sarawak might not match those in developed countries, but the impact of their service at home would be far more meaningful.
“It is about serving with purpose and sincerity. If we wait until we can pay the same as Singapore, we might not need you anymore because others would have taken those positions,” he added.
Dr Sim also touched on Sarawak’s ambitions in the medical field, including expanding healthcare services and medical tourism.
He pointed out that Sarawak General Hospital has been selected as a site for groundbreaking medical research, attracting patients from outside the state.
With rapid developments in Sarawak’s economy and infrastructure, Dr Sim believes that now is the best time for Sarawakians abroad to return and play a role in the state’s transformation.
“We are no longer just a ‘jungle of Borneo.’ Sarawak is now a brand, and we want to share our values with the world,” he said.
