KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has expressed concern over the impact of recent tariffs imposed by the United States (US) on Malaysia’s healthcare sector.
He warned that rising costs could place further strain on insurance providers and patients alike.
His concerns follow the newly imposed 24 per cent tariff by the US on all imports from Malaysia.
It has been in effect since April 9, as part of the US’ broader strategy to address trade imbalances and boost domestic manufacturing.
Speaking to reporters during the Sarawak Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month event at Sarawak General Hospital today, Dr Sim explained that while tariff issues fall under the Ministry of Health in Kuala Lumpur, the matter is critical and needs attention at the local level.
“I don’t want to make statements that contradict the minister without knowing all the facts,” he said, noting that while his upcoming discussions with the Health Ministry will focus on a cancer hospital in Sarawak, the topic of increasing costs cannot be overlooked.
“The cost of insurance is already rising, and everyone is aware of this. No insurance company can operate at a loss – that’s the reality.”
Dr Sim highlighted Malaysia’s reliance on imported medicines, medical devices and healthcare equipment, much of which comes from the US, Europe and increasingly China, due to improvements in product quality.
“A lot of our medicines, devices and equipment come from overseas.
“I wish we could manufacture them locally in Sarawak, but we can’t – at least not yet. That’s why this needs to be discussed,” he said.
While acknowledging the improved quality of products from countries like China, Dr Sim stressed that innovation and high-quality healthcare products remain concentrated in developed nations.
“The largest expenditure for any government in developed countries is healthcare.
“In Malaysia, we have not caught up, not because Malaysians or Sarawakians are healthier, but because we simply haven’t invested enough,” he concluded.
