KOTA MARUDU: Parti Warisan President Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal expressed his firm commitment to bringing about major changes not only development, but also in addressing weaknesses in the healthcare system in Sabah, should his party be given the mandate in the State election.
Mohd Shafie voiced deep concern that in Sabah, with a population of around four million, there is only one heart specialist – based in Kota Kinabalu.
He questioned the hardship faced by many low-income Sabahans, particularly those suffering from chronic illnesses, who are forced to travel to Kota Kinabalu for treatment.
“It’s difficult to accept that there are no doctors in Kota Marudu. This means that if someone suffers from a heart condition, they must travel all the way to Kota Kinabalu. On top of that, through pothole-ridden roads.
“When we form the government, we will establish a Health Ministry in Sabah and set up State-owned hospitals. Health-related matters will be our priority,” he said at the Jelajah Inspirasi DSSA Bersama Rakyat Kota Marudu event held in the compound of a resident’s home in Kampung Tambun.
The programme, organised by Warisan Bandau Division, was attended by over 800 residents from the surrounding areas.
Meanwhile, Shafie emphasised that this election is a crucial one – decisive for the future, especially concerning Sabah’s healthcare, education and infrastructure issues.
Also present was the Warisan Bandau Division Chief Coordinator Rizham Abdul Rahman.
Rizham echoed Shafie’s confidence that Warisan will form the next state government after the election. He reaffirmed his commitment to fighting for improved infrastructure and healthcare development in Kota Marudu, particularly for communities that have long been neglected.
In addition, Rizham raised the issue of the bridge in the Pekan Lama area here, describing it as one of the main reasons the old town has been left behind.
He said that once the bridge is built, it will help revitalise the old town.