Health Minister Backs Sarawak's MA63 Committee Restructure for Better Implementation
In a significant development regarding the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has exp...
In a significant development regarding the implementation of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad has expressed his support for Sarawak's proposal to restructure the Technical Committee under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 Implementation Action Council (MTPMA63). Speaking to reporters after officiating the opening of the Serian and Siburan Health Clinics in Sarawak, Dr Dzulkefly described the proposal as a positive step towards more effective management and implementation of MA63 matters.
Dr Dzulkefly was responding to a proposal put forward by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, who suggested restructuring the MTPMA63 committee from this year to include key federal agencies such as the Finance Ministry, the Economic Planning Unit, and the Public Service Department. The Health Minister emphasized that all proposals from Dr Sim deserve the federal government's attention, noting that the restructuring could streamline processes and improve coordination.
"In my view, the proposal is very positive and should be considered to improve the process," Dr Dzulkefly stated. "With a minister in the Prime Minister's Department for Sabah and Sarawak (Datuk Mustapha Sakmud), I can raise this through the appropriate channels. I have taken note of the proposals raised by the Sarawak Deputy Premier. The Sarawak state government can also channel them to the MA63 main secretariat under the Sabah and Sarawak Affairs Division (BHESS) in the Prime Minister's Department."
The proposal comes at a time when health issues under MA63 often involve multiple ministries and agencies, requiring coordinated efforts before decisions can be finalized. Dr Dzulkefly acknowledged this complexity, stating that the restructuring is reasonable given the interdisciplinary nature of many MA63-related matters. He and Dr Sim co-chair the Sarawak Joint Action Committee on Health Development, which serves as a crucial platform for discussing strategic health-sector issues in the state, aligned with the spirit of MA63.
The Malaysia Agreement 1963 is a foundational document that outlines the terms of Sabah and Sarawak's entry into the Federation of Malaysia. Its implementation has been a longstanding issue, with both states seeking greater autonomy and recognition of their rights. The MTPMA63 was established to oversee the execution of MA63 provisions, but concerns have been raised about its effectiveness, prompting calls for structural improvements.
Dr Dzulkefly's endorsement of the restructuring proposal highlights the federal government's willingness to engage with Sarawak's suggestions. It also underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing MA63 matters, particularly in sectors like health, where federal and state jurisdictions often intersect. By involving key agencies such as the Finance Ministry and the Economic Planning Unit, the restructured committee could enhance resource allocation and policy alignment, ultimately benefiting the people of Sarawak.
In addition to discussing MA63, Dr Dzulkefly highlighted the recent openings of the Serian and Siburan Health Clinics, which represent significant investments in Sarawak's healthcare infrastructure. The RM28.7 million Siburan Health Clinic is expected to serve nearly 81,000 locals, while the RM23.9 million Serian Health Clinic will benefit over 85,000 residents in the Serian district. Both facilities are designed as one-stop centres, each capable of handling up to 500 patients daily, thereby reducing congestion at major hospitals.
These developments reflect the broader efforts to improve healthcare services in Sarawak, in line with MA63's emphasis on equitable development. Dr Dzulkefly's support for the MTPMA63 restructuring proposal, coupled with the inauguration of new health clinics, demonstrates a multifaceted approach to addressing Sarawak's needs—both through policy reforms and tangible infrastructure projects.
As the federal and state governments continue to navigate the complexities of MA63 implementation, Dr Dzulkefly's remarks signal a collaborative spirit and a commitment to finding practical solutions. The proposed restructuring of the MTPMA63 committee could pave the way for more efficient decision-making and better outcomes for Sarawak, reinforcing the partnership between Putrajaya and Kuching in upholding the principles of the Malaysia Agreement 1963.
