Bintulu: DAP Sarawak Bintulu Branch Chairman Chiew Chan Yew has urged the Sarawak Government to take the lead in developing healthcare facilities owned and managed by Sarawakians, calling it a “correct and necessary direction” for the state’s future.
Chiew said Sarawak’s annual revenue of about RM14 billion was sufficient to support the state in building its own healthcare infrastructure, strengthening its public health foundation, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
“With both economic strength and administrative capacity, Sarawak should have greater confidence in investing in the people’s health,” he said.
He suggested that if the establishment of a fully Sarawak-owned private hospital could not yet be realised, the government could begin by setting up “Sarawak Clinics” or collaborating with local private clinics to expand access to healthcare.
“This clinic model is more direct, cost-efficient, and faster to implement, making it one of the most practical ways to immediately improve public healthcare,” Chiew explained, adding that the proposal aligns with the policy vision first championed by DAP Sarawak Chairman Chong Chieng Jen.
He pointed out that the Sarawak Government can repurpose vacant shop lots across the state into community clinics, saying the initiative could quickly expand healthcare access while revitalising underutilised spaces.
Chiew said many commercial premises in Sarawak have been left empty for years and could be transformed into public assets that directly serve the people.
“The government can make good use of these idle resources by establishing community clinics in stages, providing health consultations, chronic disease management, vaccination services, and emergency response facilities.
“It’s a practical way to improve public healthcare without waiting for large-scale hospital projects,” he said in a statement.
He added that Sarawakians continue to face chronic healthcare shortages, especially in rural areas where residents often have to travel long distances and spend hours waiting for treatment.
“A well-developed healthcare system in Sarawak would not only benefit current residents but also encourage Sarawakian talents abroad to return home. Many young people hesitate to come back because of limited medical services.
“Even healthcare professionals feel there is little future for them here. Building a modern healthcare infrastructure will not only safeguard public health but also restore people’s confidence in Sarawak’s future,” Chiew said.
Meanwhile, Chiew aimed at some leaders from the ruling Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP), accusing them of rejecting opposition proposals “out of habit and prejudice.”
“Such an attitude reflects irresponsible political thinking. Any constructive proposal that benefits the people, regardless of where it comes from, should be studied seriously.
“As the opposition, our role is not only to monitor the government but also to propose practical and feasible solutions to move policies in a better direction. We believe in the value of constructive oversight and that has always been the role DAP Sarawak is committed to fulfilling,” he said.
He called on the Sarawak Government to incorporate healthcare development into a long-term strategic plan rather than treating it as a short-term election project.
“Healthcare is the core of public infrastructure and one of the most essential service for the people. Sarawak has the resources, the capability, and above all, the responsibility to build a healthy and secure home for future generations,” he said.
