KAPIT – The Sarawak Government remains steadfast in its mission to enhance rural healthcare infrastructure, with a strong focus on ensuring equitable access to quality medical services in areas such as Kapit.
Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Bumiputera Law and Custom), Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, reiterated the government’s commitment during the official welcoming ceremony for the Sarawak Director of Health’s visit on Thursday.
“Strengthening healthcare infrastructure and personnel placement in rural areas will continue to be prioritised,” he said, adding that geographical and logistical hurdles should never hinder rural communities from receiving comprehensive and timely treatment.
Addressing Urgent Needs in Kapit
Jefferson Jamit highlighted key discussions from a recent site visit involving Deputy Minister of Health, Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni, and Deputy Secretary-General (Finance) of the Ministry of Health, Dato Zahrul Hakim Abdullah.
Among the pressing issues raised:
- The urgent need for more medical staff
- Boosting healthcare expertise in local facilities
- Immediate infrastructure upgrades at Kapit Hospital, which is currently facing critical repair needs
“We are hopeful this visit will lead to prompt follow-up action from the Federal Government to support Sarawak’s rural health development agenda,” he said.
Healthcare as a Fundamental Right
As the State Assemblyman for Bukit Goram, Jefferson stressed that healthcare must be viewed as a basic necessity rather than a privilege.
“Health access should not be dictated by geography. Rural residents in Kapit deserve the same level of care as anyone else in the state,” he asserted.
The Sarawak Government continues to implement key initiatives including clinic construction and upgrades, health outreach programmes, and strategic staffing efforts to ensure rural communities are not left behind.
