Kota kinabalu: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced plans to merge the Simpudu and Biau Rural Clinics in Sabah, upgrading the facilities to a Type 3 Health Clinic at a new site to provide enhanced access to healthcare for local villagers.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad shared that this initiative is part of MOH's commitment to ensuring continuous delivery of quality healthcare services in Sabah. The upgrade to a Type 3 Clinic, which can handle 300 to 500 patients daily, demonstrates MOH's dedication to overcoming environmental and infrastructural challenges.

The ministry has allocated RM1 million for the next year to demolish the current KD Simpudu structure and build a new clinic due to safety concerns stemming from land subsidence caused by riverbank erosion. KD Simpudu, operational since 2011, serves over 6,229 residents and is a vital health service provider in the region.

During a working visit to Sabah, Dr Dzulkefly inspected both village clinics. He noted that KD Biau, which serves as the main referral point for 5,056 residents since 2004, will temporarily accommodate KD Simpudu patients for six to nine months during the construction phase. Minor repairs at KD Biau will include converting the back area into a covered parking lot and shared waiting area to improve patient comfort.

Dr Dzulkefly also visited KD Gadong, serving over 8,700 residents since 2004, and recognized it as one of the clinics severely affected by recent floods in Sabah. An immediate allocation of RM50,000 has been approved to replace damaged equipment, ensuring service continuity.

To address long-term risks, Dr Dzulkefly has instructed the Sabah State Health Department to find a new federal land site for rebuilding KD Gadong, as the current location is prone to flooding. This initiative aims to restore health services quickly while ensuring safety and continuity of care for the local community.