SANDAKAN – The villagers in remote Kg Tangkarason in Beluran can breathe a sigh of relief after the Health Ministry approved RM361,600 for more medical assets and RM50,000 to repair their dilapidated hall that is serving as a makeshift clinic.
The initial clinic burnt down in February.
Scoop previously highlighted the villagers’ plea for aid due to the deteriorating conditions at the makeshift clinic.
Sabah Health director Datuk Dr Asits Sanna said the ministry approved RM361,600 to purchase medical assets for the clinic, and RM50,000 to repair the makeshift facility.
This is in addition to the RM1.04 million previously approved to reconstruct the Tangkarason health clinic, including staff quarters.
“Works to reconstruct the clinic, repair the hall, and acquire the medical assets are currently ongoing under the purview of the Beluran health office.
“As for the living quarters, the ministry has approved the allocation to pay for a homestay for temporary use. Additionally, the ministry has confirmed an allocation of RM500,000 to build twin quarters, and construction will start in 2025.”
Before this, Scoop reported that a villager expressed grave concern over the inadequate staffing, equipment and medical supplies at the makeshift clinic, particularly in emergencies.
On the issue of staff shortages, Asits said the medical officer at the clinic had transferred to Johor in July last year, but there would be regular visits by other officers from the Paitan health clinic, which is around 30km from Kg Tangkarason.
However, he said the state department was now working on allocating a medical officer to the village soon, while a medical assistant would be transferred to the clinic in mid-April.
“The Sabah Health Department will continue to monitor the services rendered to the community, and the welfare of the personnel in the Tangkarason health clinic.
“The construction of the new clinic and the acquisition of the medical assets will be monitored so that it will be completed within the duration set.” – April 6, 2024