KUCHING, Nov 4 — Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has challenged the Sarawak government to prove that it values the welfare of its people by building state-owned hospitals that charge affordable, public-level fees, instead of focusing on symbolic mega-projects.
He said the state’s growing wealth gives it both the resources and the moral responsibility to address the strain on public healthcare services.
“Decades ago, Sarawak built hospitals with a fraction of today’s revenue. With more than RM12 billion annually, there is no excuse for inaction,” said Chong, recalling the construction of Normah Hospital and the Heart Specialist Hospital during times of smaller state budgets.
The DAP Sarawak leader criticised Deputy Premier Dr Sim Kui Hian for rejecting the proposal and accused SUPP of hiding behind the claim that healthcare is a federal issue.
“Even with Sarawak leaders in the federal cabinet, the funds available for healthcare remain insufficient. The state must step in when Putrajaya cannot deliver,” he said.
Chong also took aim at the government’s “misplaced priorities,” pointing to the recently completed Satria Pertiwi Complex as an example of how public funds are being channelled toward prestige rather than people’s needs.
He urged the Sarawak government to shift its focus from monumental projects to meaningful investments in health infrastructure, asserting that strong healthcare systems are the foundation of a prosperous and resilient state.