By Umie Syazwanie Mohd & Aisyah Suhiri
KUCHING: The general public welcome the proposed setting up of the Sarawak Cancer Centre in the state.
Many said that it was a good move which would help to reduce medical costs for cancer patients and their families.
Minister of Local Government and Housing Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, in a Facebook post on Sunday (Sept 19), said that the state government and Putrajaya would soon discuss the proposal.
He said he would discuss the proposal with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin.
Muhd Mirza Mazlan, graduate
Having our own cancer centre will ensure proper treatment and facilities for cancer patients in Sarawak. The establishment of the centre means that cancer patients do not have to travel to West Malaysia for medical treatment anymore.
Umi Haida Hassan, trainee nurse
Cancer is the second killer disease in Malaysia after heart disease. Most cancers are difficult to detect in the early stages. With a cancer centre here in Sarawak, locals will have the chance to receive competent medical treatment at affordable prices. There will be more job opportunities for healthcare workers in the state, too.
Dancy Agan, teacher
A cancer centre is crucial to fulfil the needs of cancer patients in the state. With a cancer centre around, patients will be able to undergo treatment in the state. The setting up of the Sarawak Cancer Centre will also promote awareness of cancer in our society.
Chuah Ee Wei, student
Cancer treatment is very costly and some patients need to seek medical help outside Sarawak. Doing so will be a huge financial burden for cancer patients and their families. A cancer centre in the state can help people from the B40 group and people from the rural areas to receive treatment locally.
Jamil Usop, secondary school teacher
The cancer centre will help to reduce the costs of treatment and time spent by patients. Currently, some cancer cases have to be treated in West Malaysia and this affects their recovery process. It is hoped the setting up of the Sarawak Cancer centre will also produce local cancer specialists.
