KUCHING: Preliminary work on the Sarawak Cancer Centre is set to commence next year with an allocation of RM5mil, according to Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian.
He stated that the centre would offer comprehensive cancer care alongside advanced cancer research and training in the state.
"I wish to extend my gratitude to the Prime Minister and Sarawak Premier for allocating RM1bil for the construction of a state-of-the-art cancer centre in Sarawak, to be funded by the Sarawak government in advance and reimbursed by the Federal Government later," he said during his winding-up speech at the state legislative assembly on Tuesday (Nov 19).
The announcement of the cancer centre was made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of Budget 2025 last month.
Anwar mentioned that Putrajaya would collaborate with the state government to develop the centre, which is estimated to cost RM1bil.
Dr Sim also noted that the federal Health Ministry had allocated RM40mil under the Bitara Madani initiative to redevelop dilapidated clinics in Sarawak in the coming year, with 50 proposed projects.
Additionally, he said the Federal Government had agreed to allocate RM50mil for 12 projects involving dilapidated health facilities, with the Sarawak government providing a matching amount.
"This will expedite the redevelopment of dilapidated health facilities in Sarawak.
"All these projects are currently at pre-implementation stages," he added.
Regarding health autonomy, Dr Sim mentioned that Putrajaya had agreed to delegate powers of clinic registration, licensing, and enforcement under the Health Ministry's Private Medical Practice Control Section (CKAPS) to the state Health director.
He also said discussions are ongoing about establishing a Sarawak Medical Committee under the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC).
"The main objective of the Sarawak Medical Committee is to provide a local governance structure that ensures compliance with MMC regulations while addressing specific healthcare needs and challenges in Sarawak," Dr Sim stated.
