KUCHING – The Sarawak Government has committed RM500 million to finance medical equipment for the upcoming Sarawak Cancer Centre, raising the total project cost to RM1.5 billion.
Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, confirmed the decision following a request from the Federal Government, which had not included equipment costs in the original construction budget.
Speaking after a forum at the 2026 Sarawak Budget Conference at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), Abang Johari explained that Sarawak would advance the funds for construction while also covering the equipment expenses outright.
“So, we in Sarawak agreed, which means the Sarawak Cancer Centre will be funded by the Sarawak Government and the Federal Government, even though we will initially ‘advance’ the funds for the construction of the centre,” he said.
The Premier stressed that the move was intended to ease the financial burden on patients, ensuring that Sarawakians no longer need to travel outside the state for cancer treatment.
He noted that the centre would reduce transport costs and accommodation expenses for families accompanying patients.
“So, we want to help the people, even if we have to pay for the construction first because they (the Federal Government) will reimburse us later, but we will cover the cost of the equipment ourselves,” he added.
He also expressed hope that Sarawak’s prosperity would continue to grow, asking for prayers to sustain the state’s ability to support its citizens.
The Sarawak Cancer Centre is expected to become a major healthcare facility, providing advanced oncology services and reducing reliance on hospitals in Peninsular Malaysia.
The investment reflects the state’s broader commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to treatment.
Abang Johari highlighted that the centre would be a landmark project for Sarawak, symbolising the state’s determination to invest in long-term health solutions.
The Premier also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for maintaining Sarawak’s representation in the Cabinet with five ministers, reinforcing the state’s voice in national decision-making.
The RM1.5 billion project is set to transform cancer care in Sarawak, offering comprehensive treatment facilities and easing the burden on patients and families across the state.
