KUCHING (Jan 1): The newly opened Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) Sarawak office at The Podium Street Mall marks a significant milestone in strengthening healthcare support and accessibility for medical professionals in the state. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who officiated the event, described the new facility as a vital resource for Sarawak’s healthcare community.
“This is not just an office, but your home—a place where you will feel supported by your family, your medical family,” said Dr Sim during the ceremony.
As Sarawak’s Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Minister, Dr Sim highlighted the upgraded office’s role in fostering stronger collaboration between the government and the medical community. The facility will serve as a hub for various medical organisations, including the Society of Private Medical Practitioners Sarawak (SPMPS), Kenyalang Medical Foundation, the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia Sarawak, and Koperasi Doktor Perubatan Swasta Negeri Sarawak Berhad.
Dr Sim praised Sarawak’s growing reputation in the healthcare sector, citing the Sarawak Heart Centre as an example of excellence that has gained international recognition. He noted that such infrastructure developments reflect the state’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of healthcare.
“This new office is a crucial step to ensure our medical workforce has the best support to address the unique challenges of our state,” he added, reinforcing Sarawak’s efforts to achieve greater autonomy in healthcare under the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
MMA Sarawak Chairman Dr Ong Eng-Joe celebrated the move as a transformative step. He recalled the association’s humble beginnings in 1995 at the Sarawak General Hospital and how far they have progressed.
“The new office symbolises growth and offers a spacious, convenient environment for members, especially senior doctors. It’s a hub for better service delivery and collaboration,” he said.
Also present were MMA President Dato Dr Kalwinder Singh Khaira, SPMPS President Dr Liew Shan Fap, and Kenyalang Medical Foundation Chairman Dr Mahadhir Alhady Sulaiman.