SARAWAK is asked Putrajaya for RM17 billion to repair public health facilities, including clinics, in the state.
Deputy National Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said the sum was calculated by the state authorities.
State leaders have presented the request to the prime minister, he said today in Kuching.
"The RM17 billion sought by the state government is a huge amount of money and it may take some time (for the government to come up with it) maybe via the next Malaysia Plan.
"There are 206 clinics in Sarawak in need of urgent repair. They are listed under the dilapidated category," he said.
Lukanisman said clinics serving large populations would be repaired first.
Much of the state's infrastructure, including rural bridges, roads, and schools, are in a state of disrepair.
Nearly 500 schools in Sarawak are categorised as severely dilapidated and awaiting repair or reconstruction. About 200 schools have been completely repaired, while 309 others are currently undergoing repairs.
State Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah had told the state assembly that the projects were undertaken by the state and federal governments.
"We (state and federal education departments) have also identified numerous schools that must be relocated. These schools are located in sites that are deemed dangerous because they are near riverbanks that are being eroded," he said. – June 9, 2024.
