THE call for a new hospital in Mukah is only part of the solution to the pressing healthcare challenges.
Royston Valentine (GPS-Tellian) said upgrading health clinics, dental offices, and staff quarters is equally dire.
“These facilities, including the current maternal and child health clinic, are in poor and non-conducive conditions for providing quality healthcare services to the community.
“Therefore, I urge that these facilities be more comprehensively planned and upgraded in Mukah,” he said during his debate in support of the Supply Bill 2025 here today.
Furthermore, he noted a shortage of medical staff at the Mukah Hospital and called for improved patient facilities.
“I call on the ministry to ensure adequate medical officers, trained nurses, community nurses, dental nurses, and male nurses to work at the Mukah Hospital.
“The furniture and equipment in the treatment rooms and wards at Mukah Hospital must be improved,” he urged.
Meanwhile, Royston suggested that the Sarawak government financially support relevant anti-drug agencies.
“The Sarawak government should provide financial support through the proper channels to agencies like the National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK) or other anti-drug related NGOs such as the Sarawak Anti-Drug Squad.
“These supports could help implement prevention, education, and awareness programmes at the grassroots level.
“Relying solely on the annual allocation from the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) for AADK needs to be revised, especially considering the vast responsibilities of AADK in Sarawak.
“In addition to law enforcement efforts by the police to address drug abuse and online gambling, education and awareness programmes starting from an early stage are crucial as a long-term solution to these problems,” he said.
