New heart centre a triumph for Sabahans, says charity NGO

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s own cardiology centre, a Hari Raya gift from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to the state, marks a significant leap forward for the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

The decision also comes as a beacon of hope for Sabahans, said Society for the Sabah Heart Fund president Datuk Eva Susau (pic).

The centre was the fruit of years of relentless lobbying and advocacy for Sabah to have such a facility.

“The approval of the centre is not only a testament to the government’s commitment to the health and well-being of its citizens, but also a triumph for all Sabahans who have long awaited accessible and quality heart treatment facilities closer to home.” she said in a statement on Sunday (April 21).

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Susau said the timely announcement brings immense relief to countless individuals who previously had to endure the inconvenience and financial burden of travelling long distances for essential care.

“With the establishment of the National Heart Institute in Sabah, our community can now access specialised cardiac services without the need for extensive travel, ensuring prompt and effective treatment for heart-related conditions,” she added.

Commending the government for prioritising the healthcare needs of Sabahans, she said the initiative will ease the burden on existing healthcare facilities while improving the overall health outcomes and quality of life for citizens.

Anwar announced the setting up of the centre in his speech during the national-level Madani Raya Aidilfitri at the Sabah International Convention Centre here on Saturday (April 20).

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The Sabah Cardiology Centre will be a dedicated block for cardiology cases at the Queen Elizabeth II main hospital here.

Anwar also said three heart specialists would be transferred to the centre.

RM80mil has been allocated for the project, including upgrades to existing infrastructure, emergency unit, wards, equipment and other facilities.

The current cardiology and cardiothoracic department at Queen Elizabeth Hospital II provides 107 beds for patients, a specialist clinic, laboratory facilities and cardiothoracic operating theatre.

There are a total of 120 trained nurses there with a current bed occupancy average of 75%.