Kota Kinabalu: State Community Development and People’s Wellbeing MinisteraDatuk James Ratib hoped the Health White Paper won’t end up like the Malaysia Agreement which is still being debated today.
He said everything for a more efficient health care system is contained in the plan from administration to insurance and health promotion but feared Sabah could end up being left out or skimped on after “endless studies or push and pull with federal”.
James said Sabah received only RM69 million in health funds this year while states like Negeri Sembilan and Melaka received more than 100 million.
“As a people’s representative we are tired of explaining even after these matters have been raised in Parliament.
“I urge heads of state departments to give full cooperation with federal because if we don’t work together then we will be the losers with only ourselves to blame,” he said in his speech at the Health White Paper Town Hall session here on Friday.
He cited a health facility in Kota Marudu which housed a CT scanner but the building lacked adequate power supply, rendering it useless.
“Now when Malaya wants to relocate the machine our people start getting angry,” he said.
The session was a part of a national tour headed by Minster of Health Dr Zaliha Mustafa attended by healthcare professionals from all over the state.
Many complained about the lack of specialists and road conditions which impede patient transfer.
Some spoke out against the influx of foreigners, namely the sea gypsies or Palau as suspected disease carriers.
James said after the street kids shelter in Kota Kinabalu another would be built in Tawau and Lahad Datu.
“Sabah lacks haemodialysis centres. I hear you. I know that this disease affects those who are mostly living in the interior.
“I learnt that it’s their traditional diet especially rice wine which is a factor. Cases have also risen alongside the mushrooming of fast food chains. Awareness on the matter is still low.
“However, among efforts from my Ministry is to collaborate with corporate agencies like Petronas through corporate social responsibilities in building more clinics.
“A few locations have been identified and will be revealed soon after finalisation,” he said.
