KOTA KINABALU: Government clinics here are struggling with outdated infrastructure, overcrowded facilities, and deteriorating conditions, highlighting an urgent need for federal intervention.
“Many clinics are operating beyond their intended capacity, with insufficient waiting areas, worn-out medical equipment, and poor surrounding infrastructure affecting patient care,” said Api-Api Parti Bersatu Sabah information chief Yee Tsai Yiew in a statement today (Apr 27).
Yee highlighted these issues after visiting the Kota Kinabalu Women and Children’s Clinic, one of the oldest health centres located in Kampung Air, right in the heart of the city centre.
She stressed that the worsening state of government clinics requires immediate attention and funding from the federal government.
“Essential medical equipment, such as ultrasound machines, is outdated, and basic facilities like baby cots are severely limited.
“Many patients are forced to wait outside due to cramped indoor spaces and a shortage of chairs, some of which are damaged but still in use," she said.
Yee added that problems around the clinics, including limited parking and poor road conditions, continue to burden both patients and healthcare staff.
Since healthcare infrastructure falls under federal responsibility, Yee urged the government to allocate sufficient funding for the expansion and upgrading of clinics and hospitals in Sabah, ensuring that all citizens have access to quality basic healthcare.
As a short-term measure, Yee donated 24 new chairs to the Kota Kinabalu Women and Children’s Clinic to improve patient comfort.
She emphasised that only long-term, systematic investment can truly address the broader challenges facing Sabah’s healthcare system.
Also present during the visit were Kota Kinabalu Women and Children’s Clinic medical officer Dr Christy Dymphna Akip, Api-Api community development head Oliver Majaham, and Api-Api Chinese community leader Kapitan Chee Siaw Siaw.
