KUCHING: The current population-based allocation formula for healthcare services in the country falls short in addressing the needs of Sarawak.
Speaking at the Childhood Cancer International (CCI) Asia conference organised by the Sarawak Children’s Cancer Society (SCCS) today Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian said that the existing formula, utilised by the Health Ministry under the federal government, is inadequate for Sarawak’s unique circumstances.
“We are as big as the whole Peninsular Malaysia, but we have only 2.5 million populations compared with 25 million in the Peninsular Malaysia. In addition, we have many villages in rural and remote areas,” Dr Sim explained.
“The formula used by the Health Ministry, which is under the Federal Government, is not suitable for Sarawak. That’s why we have been neglected.”
As a result, Sarawak has been advocating for healthcare autonomy under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) to better manage healthcare services and issues within the state.
Dr Sim, who is also the Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Minister, highlighted that cancer is the second most common non-communicable disease in the state, with over 3,000 cases diagnosed annually. Of particular concern are the 60 to 70 children diagnosed with cancer each year here, not accounting for readmissions and relapses.
To address the growing concern, he emphasised the need for early cancer diagnosis, as it greatly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival rates. He further emphasised the urgent need for a cancer centre in Sarawak, revealing that Premier Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had offered a loan of up to RM1 billion to the federal government to facilitate the construction of such a centre.
However, there has been no official response from the federal government thus far.
In response to the healthcare challenges faced by families affected by childhood cancer, SCCS president Rodney Wong highlighted the organisation’s commitment to providing essential care and holistic support to over 200 families annually, with an average expense of approximately RM2 million. Since its establishment in 2001, SCCS has supported more than 1,600 families in Sarawak on their cancer-fighting journey.
The CCI Asia conference, held in collaboration with CCI Asia and supported by Business Events Sarawak, serves as a vital platform for advancing discussions on the theme “Bridging the Gaps, Better Care and More Cures.” The conference has attracted over 120 delegates from 16 countries.
