Kota Kinabalu: An application to the state government seeking support or subsidies for hospitals across the state, including the provision of dialysis machines, has been submitted.
Community Development and People’s Wellbeing minister, Datuk James Ratib (inset), said most dialysis machines in Sabah’s 24 hospitals and clinics, such as Tongod and Nabawan, have been used for 8 to 10 years.
Many of these machines are outdated, difficult to maintain, or beyond repair, leaving patients unable to receive comprehensive treatment services, he said.
“I have therefore submitted a proposal to the state government to provide support or subsidies for hospitals statewide.
“We will discuss with the state Health Department Director on how to allocate these dialysis machines,” he said.
While dialysis machines are technically not the state government’s responsibility, James said the Chief Minister is concerned about addressing the people’s needs.
“I have personally pledged to donate 100 dialysis machines to hospitals and clinics in the state as a demonstration of my commitment to addressing public needs,” he said.
“Some patients said they need to pay RM13 per dialysis session at government hospitals, amounting to RM146–149 monthly.
“While the amount isn’t high, it is still a burden for extremely poor families, especially when transportation costs to and from the hospital are added.
“In light of this, I have instructed the Permanent Secretary of my department to submit the matter to the Cabinet for consideration, hoping for a swift resolution,” he added.
On the promotion system, James said the current seniority-based promotion standard is outdated.
He believes that employees who fail to demonstrate capability or contribution should not be promoted, regardless of their years of service.
“We should consider promoting capable employees who have made contributions to the department, even if their tenure is shorter.
“Additionally, we can assist less-qualified employees in gradually improving their skills or obtaining the necessary qualifications to better serve,” he said.
Regarding welfare department education assistance, James said that aid is provided based on the needs of the applicants, with no fixed amount. Families receiving welfare assistance are prioritized.
Children with outstanding academic performance may be granted scholarships, such as an initial grant of RM1,000 with an additional RM250 per semester.
This aims to provide better educational opportunities for children from impoverished families.
James called on the federal government to provide pathways and opportunities for participants of the Malaysia Short-Term Employment Programme (MySTEP) to transition into permanent positions.
“This program is excellent, but MySTEP should provide spaces and opportunities for participants to secure permanent roles, provided they can complete tasks efficiently.
“I hope the federal government considers this recommendation and implements it within a set timeframe,” he said.
James highlighted that many participants have demonstrated excellent skills in handling and completing tasks, making them deserving of stable, long-term employment opportunities.
Currently, MySTEP participants typically have contracts ranging from six months to one year.
.jpg)
