Sarawak’s Strong Revenue and Ambitious Plans
Sarawak is making a strong case for more autonomy in handling its health and education matters, with Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian leading the charge. He highlighted that Sarawak’s impressive revenue of RM13.3 billion last year surpassed Selangor’s, the richest state in Malaya, which only recorded RM2.5 billion. This substantial revenue, Dr Sim argued, positions Sarawak to achieve far more independently than what the federal government currently provides through its annual allocations.
Sarawak’s Revenue Outshines Selangor
Dr Sim’s call for autonomy is backed by solid financial data. Last year’s RM13.3 billion revenue indicates Sarawak’s economic robustness. This figure eclipses Selangor’s RM2.5 billion, demonstrating Sarawak’s potential to thrive independently.
The Need for Upgraded Health Facilities
Addressing a critical issue, Dr Sim pointed out that Sarawak’s outdated clinics and hospitals require RM17 billion for upgrading and rebuilding. He emphasized that Sarawak is rapidly catching up in development and asserted that if the federal government cannot keep pace, the state will forge ahead on its own.
“So what we ask for is just the ‘opportunity’ (by having health and education autonomy). We don’t want you to feel sorry for us. Give us the opportunity and we shall return it,” he stated during his speech at the opening ceremony of the 15th Malaysia Hospice Council Congress 2024 held at a renowned hotel in Sarawak last night (July 25).
The 15th Malaysia Hospice Council Congress 2024
Strengthening Connections and Collaborations
The congress, themed ‘Strengthening Connections and Collaborations in Palliative Care,’ served as a powerful call to action. Dr Sim underscored that the essence of palliative care transcends clinical and technical treatment aspects, focusing on the human connections and collaborative efforts essential to effective care.
Encouraging National Participation
With over 600 participants from across Malaysia attending the three-day congress from July 25 to 27, Dr Sim expressed hope that attendees would gain valuable insights. The event provided a platform for health professionals to exchange knowledge, enhance skills, and foster relationships crucial for advancing palliative care in Malaysia.
Key Figures at the Event
The congress saw the presence of several notable figures, including:
- Dr Veronica Lugah, Sarawak Health Director
- Datuk Wee Hong Seng, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor
- Dr Teh Jo Hun, Sibu Divisional Health Officer
- Dr Ng Woon Fang, Malaysian Hospice and Palliative Care Council Chairperson
- Dr Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu, Sibu Hospital Director
- Amelia Roziman, Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak) CEO
- Dr Lam Chin Chyou, Organising Chairman
These key individuals’ participation underscored the significance of the congress and the collaborative efforts in palliative care.
Sarawak’s Path Forward
Advocating for Autonomy
Dr Sim’s speech reflects Sarawak’s readiness and capability to manage its health and education sectors autonomously. By emphasizing the state’s strong revenue and the urgent need for upgraded health facilities, Dr Sim is advocating for greater self-governance. This push for autonomy is seen as a means to ensure that Sarawak’s resources are utilized efficiently and effectively, tailored to the specific needs of its residents.
A Vision for the Future
The future Dr Sim envisions is one where Sarawak is not reliant on federal allocations but is empowered to use its substantial revenue to address local challenges. By gaining autonomy in health and education, Sarawak aims to enhance its infrastructure, improve services, and ultimately provide better outcomes for its citizens.
Conclusion
Sarawak’s call for autonomy in health and education, championed by Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian, is a significant step towards self-reliance and improved local governance. With a robust economic foundation and a clear vision for the future, Sarawak is poised to take control of its developmental trajectory, ensuring that its citizens benefit from tailored and effective services.