PENAMPANG: The Penampang population has grown from 86,621 in 2000 to 165,700 in 2023, representing about 4.4% of the total population of Sabah. In view of this, the government needs to ensure that the health service grows in tandem with the population.
For the record, the doctor-patient ratio in Malaysia is 1:420, or 2.4 doctors per 1000 persons. Ideally, the ratio should be 1:400.
Dr. Edwin Bosi, who is the Coordinator of Parti Anak Negeri for the West Coast, said the government has planned to build another Class 3 clinic at Donggongon to complement the existing Penampang Policlinic at Kivatu. This clinic is sited on a 4-acre plot of land.
Dr. Bosi, who is a former Kapayan Assemblyman, said he brought up this matter in the State Assembly but was told that there is a delay. The Minister in charge of the matter informed the House that the land has been reclaimed. Phase 1 to prepare the site began in 2013 and was completed in 2015.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa visited the site in April 2023, followed by her deputy in May 2024. As reported on 23 April 2024, Sabah Minister Datuk James Rantip announced RM50 million in funding for the clinic.
The significance and importance of this class 3 health clinic for Penampangnites are overwhelming. Sadly, till today and after 15 years of the land reclaimation began, there is no visible sign of construction of any kind on this property. The land is now covered with grasses and shrubs.
Dr. Bosi said he does his medical review at the Penampang Polyclinic on a quarterly basis. I experience the service provided and it is exemplary despite the increase in the number of patients who are relocated from Luyang Hospital, he added.
The patients have to show patience, as the waiting is usually very long. Dr. Bosi said the inadequate parking spaces are adding to the stress faced by patients.
Thus, the early completion of the Class 3 clinic at Donggongon is of paramount importance. I hope this is not just another election promise, Dr. Bosi concluded.
