TAWAU: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he is committed to uplifting Sabah’s status and advancing its development, acknowledging the State’s strong potential for growth.
He said the Federal Government has a clear and stable policy direction, and with good governance and cooperation, Sabah can continue to progress.
“Sabah has the capacity to be elevated, provided it is managed well and maintains good cooperation with the Federal Government. Without close cooperation, it will be difficult for us to achieve our goals,” he said.
He said the Madani Government managed to resolve many long-standing public issues over the past three years, including completing previously delayed projects such as the Tawau Hospital upgrade.
He described the newly completed Block C as a new landmark in the State’s healthcare system. Previously, Tawau Hospital consisted of Block A, a polyclinic and Block B.
Earlier, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, in his welcoming remarks, said the new facility — equipped with modern amenities — reflects the Madani Government’s commitment to ensuring the people of Sabah enjoy safe, high-quality and modern healthcare services.
He said the new block is part of the 11th Malaysia Plan’s Rolling Plan project, now completed under the current administration, as proof of the Government’s determination to deliver long-delayed projects for the benefit of the people.
“With an investment of RM223.65 million funded by the Federal Government, the new block adds 154 beds, increasing Tawau Hospital’s total capacity to 585 official beds,” he said.
The project also includes new operating theatres, specialist consultation rooms and treatment spaces to enhance efficiency and service quality.
Dr Dzulkefly added that Tawau Hospital now offers a range of specialised clinical services, including cardiology, reconstructive plastic surgery, geriatrics, and others.
“Our aspiration is to further strengthen the hospital’s capacity so that it can achieve the status of a Category 1 State Hospital (ACE) by 2030,” he said.
He also noted Tawau’s strategic role as an important healthcare hub for Sabah’s east coast, serving surrounding districts such as Semporna, Kunak and Lahad Datu.
“Tawau is not merely a district at the edge of the map, but one of the key frontiers in Malaysia’s healthcare development and reform,” he said.
