DEBAK: The Sarawak Government remains steadfast in strengthening rural healthcare services with a funding allocation of RM11 million for the complete reconstruction of the Maternal and Child Health Clinic in Debak.

The announcement was made by Deputy Minister for Community Wellbeing Development and Saribas Assemblyman, Datuk Mohammad Razi Sitam, during the launch of the Sarawak Heritage Healthy Lifestyle Carnival 2025.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Health Malaysia’s Training Institute (ILKKM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH), and held at Rumah Jembat, Ulu Dit, on Friday.

According to Datuk Razi, the current clinic building, constructed in 1973, is in a dilapidated condition and no longer suitable for long-term use.

“The original building is made almost entirely of timber—about 99 per cent.

“It is now time we provide a safer, more comfortable, and modern healthcare facility, in line with Sarawak’s development vision towards 2030,” he said.

He emphasised that rebuilding the facility would not only benefit the local community but also enhance the efficiency of healthcare service delivery for rural populations.

Datuk Razi expressed his hope that the funds would be channelled efficiently through the Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), and that the construction project could begin as soon as possible with a building design that is both suitable and practical.

During the event, he also extended his appreciation to ILKKM and the healthcare personnel involved in organising the inclusive carnival, which brought together nurses, medical assistants, and healthcare students from diverse backgrounds, including those from Peninsular Malaysia, who stayed overnight in the longhouse with the local residents.

“Programmes like this reflect a ‘people-friendly approach’, perfectly aligned with the state government’s outreach initiatives, which prioritise direct community engagement in matters of health and wellbeing.

“Sarawak places great importance on the health of its people. Infrastructure development is meaningless if our people are unwell and unable to thrive. That is why the state government takes this matter very seriously,” he added.

The Sarawak Heritage Healthy Lifestyle Carnival 2025 featured a variety of activities including free health screenings, public health talks, interactive exhibitions, and emergency response demonstrations—offering tangible benefits to the residents of Ulu Dit.

The participation of various communities including the Iban, Malay, and Chinese further underscored the spirit of unity and inclusivity in advancing shared public health goals.

Also present were Betong Member of Parliament, Dato Dr Richard Rapu, Director of ILKKM Kuching, Musaropah Sapihis, Director of the Sarawak Social Welfare Department, Semawi Mohamad, Assistant Administrative Officer from the Debak Sub-District Office, Mohamad Khairurani Mohamad Ibrahim and Tuai Rumah Jembat Meramat. -UKASnews