Tanjong Datu has the potential to be a destination for outpatients in Sarawak

LUNDU, Sept 27: Tanjong Datu has the potential to be among the recovery destinations for patients from outside Sarawak seeking treatment in the state, along with the development of health tourism sector.

Sarawak Prime Minister, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the growth of new health facilities in Kuching opens up opportunities to develop a concept of health tourism that also includes post-treatment recovery.

"Patients from outside Sarawak who are being treated in Kuching can take advantage of the facilities of resorts and tourist destinations to rest and undergo recovery period", he said while addressing the Batang Kayan Lundu Regatta Suspension Council 2026 here today.

Brother Johari said Sarawak now has several new hospitals including private health facilities in Batu Lintang, Samarahan City and Petra Jaya.

He explained that the increase in hospital capacity also opened up space for Sarawak to attract more patients from abroad, including from overseas.

In addition Brother Johari, Kuching-Jakarta flight distance of about one hour and 20 minutes is also an advantage in developing the health tourism sector.

Meanwhile, Brother Johari said that Sarawak's strength from a clean environmental aspect is also an important asset in supporting the development of health tourism.

He said Sarawak's efforts towards a green economy by reducing carbon and pollution would help provide a better environment for visitors.

Earlier, the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri also expressed hope that Tanjong Datu will become a part of health tourism development in Sarawak.

Johari said that the development of the sector should be carried out in a balanced manner with environmental protection to ensure economic benefits can grow sustainably. -TVS