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KUCHING, 23 Feb – Sarawak is fast becoming a hub for medical tourism, with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg highlighting the state’s healthcare transformation.
Speaking at the grand opening of D.Dentist’s second branch in Tabuan Jaya, the Premier praised the clinic’s expansion and adoption of advanced dental technology. He emphasized that healthcare is more than just hospitals—it must include all medical services, including dentistry.
Healthcare Transformation Beyond Hospitals
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“When we talk about healthcare, it doesn’t mean just building hospitals; we must take into account the whole package, including dentistry. There is an ongoing transformation in healthcare, and dentistry is no exception,” he said.
During his visit to Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) Teaching Hospital, the Premier witnessed groundbreaking medical technology, including a device that scans a patient’s body and collects DNA data for AI-assisted diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
“I believe similar advancements can be applied to dentistry. With intraoral 3D scanners and high-definition imaging, dentists can provide precise diagnoses and enhance patient confidence in their treatment,” he added.
Boosting Medical Tourism with New Private Hospitals
Sarawak’s medical sector is drawing international attention, with an increasing number of medical tourists seeking high-quality yet affordable treatment. To support this growth, the Premier announced three new private hospitals:
- IHH Healthcare Singapore will establish a hospital in Batu Lintang.
- A 300-bed hospital in Tabuan Jaya will focus on cancer treatment.
- Another 300-bed hospital in Petra Jaya will be privately managed.
“These hospitals will attract patients looking for excellent treatment at lower costs than Singapore. With improved connectivity, doctors can monitor patients remotely, and treatment can be coordinated between Sarawak and Singapore,” he said.
Air Borneo to Strengthen Medical Connectivity
The Premier also stressed the importance of Sarawak’s own airline, Air Borneo, to enhance medical tourism. Following the acquisition of MASwings, the state aims to equip the airline with jets to improve regional connectivity, particularly for patients from Indonesia and neighboring countries.
“Infrastructure development, including a new airport and better public transport, will make Sarawak more accessible. We want to ensure that patients can travel easily for treatment, just as some Sarawakians seek medical care overseas. Now, we are reversing that trend,” he stated.
He further emphasized that while dentistry still requires physical treatment, technological advancements will improve diagnostics and treatment accuracy. With Sarawak’s growing healthcare sector, he hopes to see more skilled dentists contributing to the state’s medical ecosystem.
D.Dentist’s Growing Impact
Also present at the event were Padawan Municipal Council Chairman Wilfred Yap Yau Sin, D.Dentist Founder Dr. Leandre Chai Sheau Wei, and partners Dr. Hii Ying Ying and Dr. Ong Zhi Li. The clinic’s expansion reflects the increasing demand for quality dental services in Sarawak, aligning with the state’s broader vision for healthcare excellence.
With these developments, Sarawak is on track to becoming a leading destination for medical tourism in the region.