SIBU: The recent directive by the Ministry of Finance (MoF) that the Ministry of Health (MoH) cut RM3.06 billion in operational expenditure has raised serious concerns in Sarawak.
Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Youth chief Kevin Lau said this decision comes at a time when Malaysia’s public healthcare system is already under significant strain, particularly with ongoing shortages of doctors, nurses, and essential resources.
“Such cuts will inevitably increase pressure on frontline personnel, while also affecting patient care and the overall efficiency of healthcare services nationwide.
“In Sarawak, the situation is even more pressing. It is estimated that 76 per cent of health clinics across the state are in poor physical condition.”
In addition, Lau said hospitals in the state are also in urgent need of upgrading and redevelopment, with an estimated RM17 billion required to bring healthcare facilities up to a satisfactory standard covering both health clinics and hospitals.
“Any reduction in operational expenditure under these circumstances risks further deterioration of already dilapidated infrastructure, ultimately impacting the quality of care for Sarawakians, especially those in rural and remote areas,” he said in a statement on Saturday (May 2).
Lau said it is therefore imperative that the MoF and the MoH engage in thorough discussions with the Sarawak government on the details and implementation mechanisms of these expenditure cuts.
Sarawak, he noted, has already demonstrated strong commitment by advancing funds for the construction of the Sarawak Cancer Hospital, with reimbursement to be made later by the federal government.
In addition, he said, the Sarawak government has agreed to finance RM500 million worth of medical equipment for the Sarawak Cancer Centre at the request of the federal government.
“We echo the call made by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hajjah Hanifah Hajah Taib that any effort to reduce national operating expenditure must be approached with caution and careful consideration.
“We also urge that this matter be brought before Parliament for proper scrutiny, allowing all Members of Parliament to deliberate and act in the best interest of the rakyat.
“Sarawak’s healthcare challenges are unique, shaped by its vast geography and longstanding infrastructure gaps compared to Peninsular Malaysia.
“In light of these realities, there is an urgent need to grant greater healthcare autonomy to Sarawak,” he stated.
