‘Healthcare a must in Bukit Assek redevelopment’

The Bukit Assek Redevelopment Project should include an area specifically designated for healthcare, says the area’s assemblyman Joseph Chieng.

He cites the Jalan Oya Health Clinic as among the facilities that urgently require upgrading.

According to him, limited space causes constant overcrowding at the clinic.

“It (clinic) was originally designed for daily capacity of 200 patients, but now, it caters for between 1,000 and 1,200 patients per day.

“That is why there is an urgent need to extend the clinic, but of course, health matters are under federal jurisdiction.

“So what we need to do for the Bukit Assek Redevelopment Project, we should have an area specifically designated as a healthcare area in order for the federal government to be able to acquire the land and do the extension,” he said in his speech for the ‘N51 Bukit Assek Media Night’ on Monday.

Chieng said he had discussed the matter with Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni when the latter visited the clinic on Jan 16.

“From my side, I will also discuss it with the Premier (Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg) and Land Custody and Development Authority (LCDA), the implementing agency of the project,” said the assemblyman.

Chieng had said earlier that the draft master plan for the Bukit Assek Redevelopment Project should be ready by this May.

Adding on, he had requested the state government to be ‘open-minded and transparent’, and also to ensure that the people would be well-informed about the project as its implementation would involve a huge number of people and properties.

“I also suggest the state government to do an exhibition; for example, on the master plan of the project.

“The LCDA officers can take the opportunity to explain to the people so that they can have direct information from the government on schedules, land acquisition, and contents of the master plan.

“At the same time, the people are encouraged to give feedback to LCDA.

“On this, the Premier agreed and he said to wait for the approval of the master plan before we could organise the exhibition.

“So far, we are moving on the right track,” Chieng added.

Chieng (at main table, sixth left) is seen in a group photo with members of the local media. On his right is Sibu Urban Renewal Committee chairman Datuk Chieng Buong Toon.