TAWAU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Health Ministry to look into adding another 100 to 150 beds to Hospital Tawau, saying its newly completed block is already close to full capacity despite being operational only recently.
"I was informed the capacity is almost full, even with the new block. So I have asked the ministry to consider adding another 100 to 150 beds using existing allocations," he said.
Anwar said he issued the instruction after being briefed by the hospital director during the Launching of the New Block of Tawau Hospital on Monday (Nov 10), where he emphasised that the project had been delayed for decades before finally being completed under the Madani government.
"This project was delayed for decades. We made it a priority to settle projects that were left unresolved for years," he said.
He said the completion of the RM223.65mil block - which adds 154 new beds and brings the hospital’s official capacity to 585 - marks a significant boost for healthcare access across the east coast of Sabah, particularly Tawau, Semporna, Kunak and Lahad Datu.
The Prime Minister said Tawau’s upgraded facilities now place it on par with major district hospitals elsewhere in Malaysia.
"I am proud because our district hospitals - whether in Selangor, Kelantan or now Tawau - are equipped with good facilities," he said.
Anwar also praised the dedication of the hospital workforce, saying the quality of care ultimately relies on the people behind the facility.
"A hospital is only as good as the service it provides," he said.
"From nurses and technicians to the cleaning and kitchen staff - everyone plays a vital role in caring for patients."
He added that the compassion and professionalism shown during his visit reflected the spirit of service that Sabah is known for.
"If this is the kind of service the nurses give, then if I ever fall ill, I think I’ll come to Tawau Hospital," he said.
Anwar stressed that improving healthcare in rural and semi-urban communities remains a top priority under the Madani framework because inadequate facilities place disproportionate strain on families.
"When health facilities are inadequate, the burden on families is enormous. That is why healthcare is among our main priorities," he said.
Earlier, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the new block expands specialist services in cardiology, geriatrics and reconstructive plastic surgery, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment outside the district.
