Kuching: The Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) Technical Committee has been called upon to develop a comprehensive healthcare roadmap to improve coordination and ensure effective monitoring of progress. Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian emphasized the necessity of this roadmap during a recent event at the Batu Kawa Health Clinic.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Sim highlighted that the roadmap is crucial to address pressing issues such as the shortage of healthcare personnel, a challenge that requires a structured plan spanning five to ten years. He urged the involvement of all relevant parties and ministries in the roadmap's formulation to achieve better outcomes and coordination.

Dr Sim pointed out the acute need for additional healthcare staff in Sarawak, noting that the Sarawak General Hospital alone requires an additional 4,000 personnel. He proposed a phased approach, suggesting the recruitment of 100 new staff in the first year, accompanied by increased scholarships and more students entering nursing, physiotherapy, and medical studies. He expressed hope that by the fifth year, half of the personnel shortage could be resolved.

Furthermore, Dr Sim stressed the importance of having a clear roadmap for future leaders to refer to, ensuring the continuity of efforts. He lamented the inefficiency of merely holding meetings, discussing issues, and shifting responsibilities between ministries, advocating instead for MA63 to serve as a definitive guide for what can be handed over to Sarawak each year.

Dr Sim concluded by acknowledging the complexity of healthcare issues, noting that solutions extend beyond financial investment to include human resources.