Senators Push For New Pan-Borneo Link, Healthcare Upgrades For Sabah, Sarawak

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- Senators today called for a new Pan-Borneo Highway alignment linking Tawau to the Kalimantan border, along with significant upgrades to healthcare infrastructure in Sabah and Sarawak, to be prioritised under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).

Sabah Senator Datuk Bobbey Suan proposed a route connecting Tawau, Kalabakan, Nabawan, Keningau and Tenom, citing its strategic potential as a trade and investment gateway to Indonesia’s Nusantara capital in East Kalimantan.

“Infrastructure investment in Sabah under 13MP is essential to improve public amenities and enable the state to benefit from economic spillovers generated by Nusantara,” he said during the Dewan Negara debate.

Bobbey also highlighted Sabah’s critical shortage of medical specialists, with a doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:856, far above the national average of 1:420, and only two cardiologists serving the entire state.

“This could directly impact the safety of the people,” he said, proposing a national plan to increase medical personnel and upgrade rural clinics to full-fledged district hospitals equipped with modern facilities.

Meanwhile, Sarawak Senator Roderick Wong Siew Lead urged urgent action on overcrowded health services in rural areas, especially Sarikei, where clinics handle up to 800 patients daily, more than double their designed capacity.

“People want answers. When will construction of the new clinic begin, where will it be built and can it handle up to 1,000 patients daily in the next 10 to 15 years?” he asked.

Senator Michael Mujah Lihan added that 13MP must ensure holistic rural development, including roads, internet access, upgraded schools and clinics, as well as local resource-based economic initiatives.

“13MP is more than a plan. It is a promise to those living deep in Sarawak’s interior. Every Malaysian deserves access to infrastructure, education, healthcare and economic opportunities,” he said.

Michael noted that internet access remains a challenge in rural Sarawak, with only 80.9 per cent coverage and limited 4G and 5G network availability.

The Dewan Negara sitting resumes tomorrow.

-- BERNAMA