KUCHING: The federal government will be following up on Sarawak’s wish of establishing its very own cancer centre in the state.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the proposal from the state government has been received, and negotiations are currently in progress.
“What was proposed is that the state government will construct the physical building (of the centre), and the federal government will be providing the medical staff and support services, including equipment and others,” he said.
He said this during a press conference after officiating at the Petra Jaya parliamentary-level Cancer Awareness Day at Klinik Kesihatan Petra Jaya here today (Feb 18).
Elaborating, Fadillah said the details of the proposal are still at the negotiation stage between the federal and state governments.
“But the dream is for Sarawak to have its own cancer centre,” he said.
On the Cancer Awareness Day programme, Fadillah urged the local community to go for health screening and testing, as early detection can significantly help in the treatment of cancer.
He pointed out that even though cancer is not contagious, it can be deadly and affect the patient’s psychosocial wellbeing.
“With early detection, we can better manage the risks of fatality, thus health screening and testing are important. The people must be aware of this and practice a healthy lifestyle,” he said.
At the same time, the Petra Jaya MP disclosed that he has agreed to the requests made by Klinik Kesihatan Petra Jaya to improve its facilities.
“However, requests made relating to medical equipment will be channelled to the Ministry of Health,” he said.
For the record, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg had announced that the state government is prepared to build a cancer centre by the end of this year if the federal government agrees to the proposal.
He said the centre would contribute to the healthcare of the region and cater for the needs of cancer patients from Sarawak, Sabah, and neighbouring countries.
“I know (to build the centre) is very costly. The state will collaborate with the federal government where we will fund the building, which will cost about RM800 million, whereas the federal government will provide us with doctors and equipment,” he said.
