ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Johor government has spent over RM66mil to upgrade the state’s public healthcare facilities throughout the past four years despite it being a federal matter, said Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
The caretaker Johor Mentri Besar said he cannot ignore the issues related to public healthcare as it affects the lives of four million Johoreans.
“I know healthcare is the federal government’s responsibility, but I cannot keep quiet and turn a blind eye.
“I am not blaming anybody, as I understand there are processes and procedures to adhere to.
“If we follow the old ways, we do not need to fork out RM66mil, but we have been going to the ground to address and improve the issues and situation,” he said before launching the state-level World Nurse’s Day celebration on Thursday (June 4).
The funding, allocated throughout the administration’s tenure, covered upgrades to infrastructure, toilets and surau as well as the purchase of medical and non-medical equipment.
Onn Hafiz added that he would continue supporting the state Health Department, including pursuing vacancies of doctors and nurses to be filled as soon as possible.
At the event, he also announced an allocation of RM500,000 to the state’s nurses and RM100,000 for medical assistants in appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
