PREPAREDNESS for zoonotic diseases such as hantavirus, particularly in rural areas, must be strengthened with clear preventive measures, monitoring systems and contingency plans.
Tellian assemblyman, Royston Valentine, requested clarification on the level of preparedness by the Ministry of Health and the Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) in facing the possibility of zoonotic disease outbreaks such as hantavirus.
“Although cases in Malaysia are rarely reported compared to countries like the United States and China, it does not mean the risk does not exist, especially in rural areas, settlements near forests, and locations with high rodent populations,” he said in his debate speech on the motion of appreciation to the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar’s address at the DUN Sitting today.
He stressed that proactive measures are crucial, stating that in matters of public health safety, prevention is always better than cure.
Royston called for clear action plans, early monitoring systems, and specific preventive measures to be in place.
He also raised a range of development and public service issues affecting his constituency, including delays in treated water supply projects.
“I seek feedback on treated water supply projects in Bukit Inkerbai and Lubok Bemban, which were approved as early as 2019 but have yet to be implemented.
“Similarly, projects in Ulu Baoh and Ulu Sebakong that have been approved are still not showing progress,” he said.
On infrastructure, he proposed upgrading plantation roads to improve rural connectivity.
“I propose that the government consider strategic collaboration with plantation owners to upgrade existing roads for shared use.
“The Sarawak Government can also consider taking over certain plantation roads connecting longhouses and gazetting them as public roads to improve accessibility,” he said.
Royston also highlighted ongoing healthcare concerns in Mukah, stating that the shortage of doctors at Mukah Hospital is still happening.
“I continue to receive complaints from patients’ families. I urge the authorities to ensure sufficient numbers of doctors so that the rakyat can receive proper treatment,” he said.
Royston further called for stricter action against underperforming contractors.
“There are contractors who fail to complete rural transformation project (RTP) projects and even abandon them midway. I propose firm action, including financial penalties and blacklisting, and that SOPs be reviewed to ensure more effective implementation,” he said.
He also proposed boosting food security through agriculture, suggesting that large-scale paddy cultivation be implemented in suitable areas in Tellian, which could strengthen food security and create new economic opportunities.
On broader development, he reiterated support for connectivity initiatives.
“I support efforts to strengthen regional connectivity through the autonomous rapid transit (ART) project and the establishment of Air Borneo, which will enhance mobility and boost tourism and trade,” he said.
