KOTA KINABALU: The federal government has granted an immediate allocation of RM80 million to establish a National Heart Centre in Sabah.
This would make it the second largest heart treatment centre after the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the urgent need for a heart centre due to the lack of proper cardiology services, leading many to seek treatment in Kuala Lumpur.
“The cardiology services at Hospital Besar Kota Kinabalu (Queen Elizabeth 2 Hospital) currently include specialist clinics, invasive and non-invasive catheterisation laboratories, cardiothoracic surgical theatres, three specialists and 120 trained nurses.
“However, I believe this is not sufficient for the needs of Sabahans.
“Therefore, I hereby announce the establishment of a special facility, namely the National Heart Centre Sabah, located at the Kota Kinabalu Hospital Complex.
“With this, we will immediately add three specialists and trained support staff,” he said during his speech at the 2024 National Madani Aidilfitri celebration, officiated by Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Juhar Mahiruddin today.
Also present were deputy prime ministers Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Fadillah Yusof, as well as Sabah chief minister Hajiji Noor.
Anwar advised the public to maintain their health by eating moderately, reducing sugary and fatty foods, and increasing physical activity to prevent heart disease.
Anwar said the federal government also agreed with the Sarawak government’s proposal to establish a National Cancer Centre in Kuching.
Thousands of residents had attended the function since 8am, savouring the array of delicious food served and enjoying cultural performances.
