SABAH TIMES (Saturday, October 21, 1967) - TAWAU, Fri. — The following is the full text of the Prime Minister’s speech this morning when he declared open the new General Hospital for Tawau.
“It gives me great pleasure to be present here today on the occasion of the opening of this magnificent new General Hospital for Tawau, costing $5 million.
“Tawau, as you know has always been close to my heart especially during the years of confrontation when this area was a hot-bed of enemy action and infiltration and therefore it required all my attention.
“Fortunately, the people of Tawau proved their loyalty in a most exemplary manner by giving their utmost co-operation to the Government, and the building of this new General Hospital is a fitting tribute to the people of this Residency.
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“I would like to pay a tribute particularly to members of the medical staff in Tawau for having done a good job by providing medical attention and treatment to members of our security forces during the difficult years of confrontation. They carried out their duty efficiently and conscientiously with good heart serving their country just like our soldiers in the frontline.
“I am told in the old hospital building, you had to work under very trying conditions because of the lack of space and other modern medical facilities. With this new hospital complex, the medical staff will be able to carry out their duty under more pleasant working conditions and give even better care and treatment to those who come to this hospital for treatment.
“There are two new features about this hospital and that is the addition of a modern surgical unit and a dental unit. I am sure these two units will fulfil a long-felt need of the people of Tawau.
“Although the planning of this hospital took place in 1960 before the formation of Malaysia, this hospital is now completed as the First Malaysia Plan. This goes to show that the Central Government is determined to go ahead with its plans to give the people of Eastern Malaysia a better life and a better standard of living and better health.
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“In this connection, I would like to say that a new hospital was opened in Lahad Datu in Oct., 1962 and the construction of a new hospital in Semporna is now underway.
“During next year, it is proposed to bring into operation a 12-bed rural clinic in Apas Balung and Kunak and when these projects are launched, a major part of the medical development for Tawau Residency would be completed.
“Once again I would like to say how much I appreciate your support at a time when our country faced severe stress and strain as the result of enemy action – this hospital will serve to remind the people of Tawau of the nation’s gratitude for the service you so nobly rendered your country.
“It gives me great pleasure to declare open this new General Hospital.”