THE Sarawak Heart Centre’s (SHC) inclusion as the 48th best cardiology specialist hospital in the Asia-Pacific region – the only public hospital from Malaysia to make the list – is testament to the state’s capability in operating high-quality specialist medical facilities.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said this at the 20th anniversary celebration of the Sibu Division Chinese Community Leaders’ Association (PKKMC), held in a hotel in Sibu.
During the event, Dr Sim also witnessed the swearing-in ceremony of PKKMC’s chairman Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau, along with members of the 11th committee board for the 2025-2026 term.
Dr Sim, who is also Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister, emphasised that Sarawak’s vast geography necessitates the presence of specialist medical centres such as heart and cancer institutes within a three-hour drive from every major town in order to ensure equitable access to healthcare services.
“It’s not feasible to travel from Miri to Kuching in three hours.
“Therefore, we must have centres located within a three-hour travel radius,” he stressed.
Dr Sim stated that although the responsibility for constructing these centres lies with the Federal Government, the Sarawak Government is prepared to allocate its own funds to proceed with the projects.
Also present were Dr Sim’s wife Datin Enn Ong, Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana, Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang, Selangau MP Edwin Banta as well as Senator Robert Lau and Senator Rita Sarimah Insol.
