Kota Kinabalu: Sabah Umno Chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin urged the State Government to step up efforts in providing basic infrastructure and support systems for healthcare officers, following the Health Ministry’s move to make postings in Sabah or Sarawak compulsory for new permanent medical officers.
Bung, who is also Kinabatangan MP, welcomed the directive as a reasonable way to correct the imbalance of healthcare personnel across the country, but stressed that the plan will only succeed if Sabah is ready to support the officers on the ground.
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“It’s not that officers are unwilling to serve here. The real issue is the lack of proper infrastructure, such as damaged roads, rundown quarters, unreliable water and electricity supply and poor communication networks.
“These challenges not only demoralise healthcare workers but also affect service delivery in rural and interior areas.
“Over time, this could erode public confidence in the healthcare system and widen the service gap between regions,” he said in a statement.
He said Sabah does not lack in public service spirit, but often fails to provide the basic necessities required for quality service.
Bung called on the State Government to draw up a clear action plan to improve staff quarters, road access to interior health facilities and basic utilities in clinics and district hospitals.
He also proposed the formation of a special task force between the State and the Health Ministry to identify high-priority areas needing urgent upgrades.
“This is to ensure new appointees don’t feel like they’re being sent to forgotten or neglected zones,” he said.
He said if Sabah is serious about closing the gap in healthcare staffing, attention must go beyond just the number of placements.
“Without a proper support system, making Sabah a compulsory posting could end up being a forced move with no long-term value.
“Sabah should be a place where officers are inspired to serve and build their careers, not just a test of their endurance,” he said.
