Premier: Quality healthcare must reach every Sarawakian, no matter where they live
KUCHING (June 13): Every Sarawakian, regardless of their location, deserves access to high-quality healthcare services, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
According to a Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) report, Abang Johari reaffirmed the Sarawak government's commitment to building an inclusive and equitable healthcare system, particularly for those in rural and interior regions.
'Our aim is to ensure that all Sarawakians, no matter their geographical location, can access the highest standard of healthcare,' he said during his address at the 51st Annual Scientific Congress of the College of Surgeons, Academy of Medicine of Malaysia at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching today.
The Premier highlighted that the state's health transformation agenda is well underway.
This includes expanding access through telemedicine, extending specialist outreach to underserved regions, and strengthening collaboration in medical education and research.
While embracing technology as a driver for healthcare reform, Abang Johari also raised concerns over emerging ethical issues.
'There is a fine line between innovation that uplifts humanity and developments that prioritise profit over people.
'The concern is whether these innovations will be accessible to all, or only to those who can afford them,' he said and called on medical institutions and practitioners to strike a balance to ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress.
'Innovation must not only be commercially viable but also inclusive, addressing the needs of the wider population – not just the privileged few,' he added.
Abang Johari also urged the medical fraternity to continue advancing science with a people-centred approach, ensuring that new developments enhance the collective well-being of society.
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