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KUCHING, March 9 – The repatriation of Sarawakian health workers stationed outside the region remains a key topic in the upcoming Technical Committee meeting of the Malaysia Agreement Implementation Council 1963 (JKTMTPMA63), set to take place this month.
Deputy Prime Minister Dato Sri Fadillah Yusof emphasized that this matter requires a balanced approach, considering the perspectives of the Federal Government and the availability of vacancies in Sarawak.
“The crucial aspect is to evaluate this issue from an administrative standpoint, determining if the implementation is feasible while also assessing the overall needs of the Ministry of Health in Sarawak.
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“If Sarawakians currently serving outside wish to return, their current positions may not necessarily be available in Sarawak. Therefore, we must consider this practically and administratively,” he explained.
Dato Sri Fadillah made these remarks while speaking to reporters during his visit to the Ramadan Bazaar at Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) @ Satok on Saturday.
Sarawak Seeks Autonomy in Health Workforce Management
Sarawak’s Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, had earlier announced that the upcoming JKTMTPMA63 meeting would also discuss the return of over 800 Sarawakian health workers currently serving outside the state. This move is part of Sarawak’s push for greater health autonomy.
Dr Sim stressed that bringing these workers back is crucial to addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals in Sarawak, without having to wait for decisions from Kuala Lumpur.
DPM Joins Ramadan Festivities
During his visit, Dato Sri Fadillah also attended the Kuching North City Hall (DBKU) Friendly Neighborhood Spicy Porridge Distribution Ceremony (KJM) at the Satok Japanese Sports Complex.
He later explored the DBKU @ Satok Ramadan Bazaar, where he purchased some iftar delicacies. His visit concluded at the Kuching Riverbank, where he witnessed the lively atmosphere of the 2025 Waterfront Iftar celebration. — UKAS EDITION