KUCHING: Sarawak is strengthening its position in medical research and healthcare innovation through greater adoption of advanced technologies, research excellence and international collaboration aimed at improving patient care and treatment outcomes.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said research and innovation remain critical in advancing healthcare services and ensuring medical professionals remain at the forefront of scientific developments.
Speaking when officiating at the International Congress of the Advanced, Robotic and Ablation Society of Gynaecologists Malaysia 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today (June 6), he said the congress serves as a platform for healthcare professionals to exchange knowledge, strengthen mentorship networks and explore emerging medical technologies.
Dr Sim highlighted that Sarawak General Hospital has been recognised as Malaysia’s top research hospital for four consecutive years, reflecting the state’s growing contribution to medical research and clinical innovation.
He said Sarawak has also been involved in first-in-human clinical research since 2022 and continues to attract collaborations with industry partners in areas such as oncology research and clinical trials.
“Even in the jungles of Borneo, we can be at the forefront of research if we are willing to pursue opportunities and think differently,” he said.
According to him, research partnerships have enabled healthcare institutions in Sarawak to gain early access to new drugs, medical devices and technologies that benefit both healthcare professionals and patients.
He encouraged medical practitioners to continue embracing innovation, research and lifelong learning to ensure healthcare services remain responsive to evolving medical needs and global advancements.
The congress drew specialists, researchers and healthcare practitioners from across the region, underscoring the growing importance of collaboration in tackling complex medical challenges.
Participants attended presentations on advances in minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted procedures and emerging treatment techniques aimed at improving patient safety and recovery.
Speaking when officiating at the International Congress of the Advanced, Robotic and Ablation Society of Gynaecologists Malaysia 2026 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today (June 6), he said the congress serves as a platform for healthcare professionals to exchange knowledge, strengthen mentorship networks and explore emerging medical technologies.
Dr Sim highlighted that Sarawak General Hospital has been recognised as Malaysia’s top research hospital for four consecutive years, reflecting the state’s growing contribution to medical research and clinical innovation.
He said Sarawak has also been involved in first-in-human clinical research since 2022 and continues to attract collaborations with industry partners in areas such as oncology research and clinical trials.
“Even in the jungles of Borneo, we can be at the forefront of research if we are willing to pursue opportunities and think differently,” he said.
According to him, research partnerships have enabled healthcare institutions in Sarawak to gain early access to new drugs, medical devices and technologies that benefit both healthcare professionals and patients.
He encouraged medical practitioners to continue embracing innovation, research and lifelong learning to ensure healthcare services remain responsive to evolving medical needs and global advancements.
The congress drew specialists, researchers and healthcare practitioners from across the region, underscoring the growing importance of collaboration in tackling complex medical challenges.
Participants attended presentations on advances in minimally invasive surgery, robotic-assisted procedures and emerging treatment techniques aimed at improving patient safety and recovery.