KOTA KINABALU: Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam said the federal government needs to address Sabah’s pressing healthcare challenges urgently.
Speaking at the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Sabah Annual Dinner and Installation Night here last night (Dec 14)
Dr. Joachim highlighted critical issues, including overcrowded clinics, the lack of essential services, and the growing “brain drain” of medical professionals leaving the country.
“Increasing demand for healthcare, coupled with an overburdened workforce, has left our healthcare system facing unprecedented challenges. Public clinics are in deplorable conditions, and many essential services remain unavailable in Sabah. For instance, children with congenital heart disorders still need to be flown to Kuala Lumpur for surgery,” he said.
Dr. Joachim underscored the need for better medical facilities and an increased number of doctors and specialists to meet the growing demands of Sabah’s population.
“It is the State Government’s hope that the Federal Government may urgently look into these matters. Sabah needs better facilities and more doctors and specialists. At the same time, the state government greatly appreciates the contributions of medical doctors and specialists working all over Sabah,” he added.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to supporting healthcare services and professionals, Dr. Joachim emphasised its partnership with MMA Sabah.
“The state government will continue to do whatever it can to support healthcare services and staff in the state. Recently our Prime Minister just announced the formation of the heart centre for Sabah, which needs to be implemented. More importantly, the state government is always in communication with the federal government regarding the need to improve the health facilities,” he said.
Dr. Joachim also extended his congratulations to MMA Sabah’s Immediate Past Chairman, Dr. Brandon Patrick Senagang, for his successful term, noting the significant growth and rejuvenation of the association under his leadership.
“Under his leadership, we have seen a rejuvenation of the association and significant growth in its influence among not only doctors but also the general population of Sabah. Bringing the national AGM back to Sabah last year, for the first time in 22 years, was a significant achievement,” said Dr. Joachim.
Welcoming MMA President Dato’ Dr. Kalwinder Singh Kaira, Dr. Joachim expressed confidence in his support for the welfare of doctors in East Malaysia.
To the newly elected Chairman of MMA Sabah, Lt Col (Dr) Eugene Tan Choon Li, and his committee, Dr. Joachim offered his best wishes.
“With Dr. Eugene’s leadership, I am confident the association will continue to grow and achieve greater heights,” he said, highlighting Dr. Eugene’s unique role as the sole internal medicine specialist in the Armed Forces in East Malaysia.
Dr. Joachim described the Annual Dinner and Installation Night as more than just a celebration but a tribute to the dedication of healthcare professionals.
“Let us take this event to celebrate and honour the doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and all those who contribute tirelessly to the well-being of our communities,” he said.
The evening served as a poignant reminder of the importance of collaboration, resilience, and continued advocacy for improved healthcare in Sabah.
