‘This cannot keep being bounced around’: Dr Sim expresses exasperation over Federal delays in MA63 health talks

Dr Sim urging faster implementation of MA63 health rights. Photo credit: TVS

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Jan 7: Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has criticised Federal delays in implementing the State’s health rights under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), describing the situation as being repeatedly “bounced around” in committee meetings.

According to a report by TVS, Dr Sim said Sarawak has agreed to gradually take over health management, noting that delays at the Federal level have slowed key decisions.

“The Federal government is not indifferent, but with responsibility for 13 states, Sarawak is not always the top priority. By taking back control, we can start implementing changes sooner,” he said while speaking to reporters after officiating the handover of basic medical supplies at Batu Kawa Health Clinic today.

Highlighting the need for stronger coordination, Dr Sim suggested that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof chair this year’s high-level MA63 ministerial committee to ensure faster and more concrete outcomes.

He also raised concerns over the slow progress of the Sarawak Cancer Centre, despite Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim instructing the Public Works Department to accelerate the project.

“MA63 should serve as a clear, actionable roadmap, not repeated discussions without results. In previous meetings, ministers often deferred issues to other departments. When we discuss health, they refer us to the Public Service Department (JPA), then the Economic Planning Unit (EPU), then the Finance Ministry.

“We keep having meetings but end up discussing others. This cannot keep being bounced around,” he lamented.

Furthermore, Dr Sim emphasised that Sarawak will not allow MA63 implementation to stall due to prolonged negotiations, calling for phased and decisive action to benefit the State’s residents. — DayakDaily