(Miri 19th) Sarawak Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin pointed out that due to the considerable distance between Miri Hospital and the Permyjaya area, which is densely populated, there is an urgent need for a well-equipped ambulance to meet emergency medical transfer needs. Therefore, the Miri Red Crescent Kidney Dialysis Center Permyjaya branch will add an ambulance worth RM420,000 to strengthen emergency medical services.
He stated that the ambulance will be stationed at the Permyjaya Dialysis Center, dedicated to transferring patients requiring urgent treatment to Miri Hospital, significantly reducing response time and enhancing the accessibility of medical services. The center is currently actively raising funds for the required purchase.
Lee Kim Shin made the above statement during a media interview after witnessing the handover of a dialysis machine worth RM45,000 from the Lions Club of Miri Host, Lions Club of Miri Central, Lions Club, of Marudi Mandarin and Lions Club of Lutong to the Permyjaya Dialysis Center yesterday morning.
He said that the international Lions Clubs District 308A2, Zone 4, Region 10, donated a total of 4 dialysis machines in 2024, fully demonstrating their ongoing concern and commitment to community healthcare and the welfare of kidney patients in the area.
Lee Kim Shin noted that currently, the Miri Red Crescent operates two dialysis centers in Miri, located at Pujut and Permyjaya, with a total of 326 dialysis patients, 159 at the Pujut center and 167 at the Permyjaya center.
He emphasized that as a non-profit organization, the Red Crescent is committed to providing an affordable and comfortable treatment environment for all kidney patients, especially those from diverse economic backgrounds. Dialysis treatment is costly, and some patients come from disadvantaged groups and cannot afford related expenses. Therefore, the Red Crescent evaluates and provides appropriate subsidies based on the family's economic situation to ensure that everyone in need can receive treatment.
“Currently, the Miri Red Crescent Dialysis Center is equipped with 114 dialysis machines, each costing about RM45,000, and operational costs are ever-increasing, putting significant pressure on us.”
He added that the Pujut dialysis center, built in 1995, has been in operation for nearly 30 years, and the building structure and electrical system are increasingly aging, requiring refurbishment and upgrades.
This upgrade plan includes replacing 30 dialysis machines, renovating the floor and related equipment, with a total expenditure of RM4 million, aiming to provide a safer and more comfortable treatment environment for patients.
