KUCHING: Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) Central Women Section Chairman and Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Kho Teck Wan, has called on DAP leaders to focus on their Federal duties before proposing for a state-owned hospital in Sarawak.
In response to DAP assemblywoman Violet Yong’s call to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr. Sim Kui Hian to consider DAP Sarawak Chairman Chong Chieng Jen’s proposal for a state-run hospital, Kho said healthcare funding and hospital development fall under the Federal Government’s jurisdiction.
“YB Chong is an elected Member of Parliament, and it is his duty not only the Sarawak Government’s but to fight in Parliament for Sarawak’s rights, including healthcare autonomy,” she said.
Kho pointed out that since DAP is part of the Federal ruling coalition, the party should not shift the responsibility to the Sarawak Government.
“If YB Chong is serious about state-owned hospitals, he should first work to secure healthcare autonomy and Federal funding for Sarawak, instead of diverting his responsibility through public statements,” she added.
Kho said Sarawakians expect leaders who genuinely stand up for the state rather than those who issue political remarks while holding Federal power.
“If DAP Sarawak cannot stand united with Sarawakians in fighting for autonomy, then they should reconsider their role in Sarawak politics,” she said, stressing that Sarawak needs leaders who will defend its rights alongside the people.
She said that for discussions about state-run hospitals to be meaningful, DAP must first fulfil its Federal duties and deliver on healthcare autonomy for Sarawak.
By Connie Chieng