Lukanisman: Lawas Hospital, Petra Jaya Hospital slated for 2026 completion
MIRI (May 5): The new 76-bed Lawas Hospital project is expected to be ready by 2026, said federal Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni.
Speaking at the Miri Melanau Association's (PMM) 'Majlis Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri' here, he expressed his hopes the facility would ease the long-standing strain on medical infrastructure in Sarawak's northern region.
He also said the long-delayed Petra Jaya Hospital in Kuching was now on track for completion next year.
'These projects reflect our commitment to decentralising healthcare, and ensuring underserved communities—especially in rural areas—have access to essential services,' he said.
Lukanisman added the ministry was monitoring the potential implications of the tariff measures recently announced by US President Donald Trump, which could impact Malaysia's pharmaceutical and clinical device imports.
He said a special parliamentary session convened today to address the issue.
On the education front, he said the Sarawak government's plan to implement the Free Tertiary Education Scheme in 2026 was a testament to Sarawak's commitment to education and the future of its youth, particularly those from low or middle-income households.
The scheme covers degree programmes at select local institutions focusing on courses in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Law, Medicine, Accounting and Finance.
(From third left) Yii, Ting, Lukanisman, Abdullah and Ariffin in a group photo with the committee members of PMM at the event last night.
'Eligible students will be required to complete a one-year government-funded foundation programme before proceeding to their degree.
'Those from households earning RM1,500 per capita or less will also receive a RM15,000 annual living stipend and RM1,200 in pocket money via the S Pay Global digital platform,' he said.
Lukanisman also voiced his support for a proposal to establish a cultural centre for PMM, expressing hope that funding could be secured through the state government.
A formal proposal was recently submitted to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Towards this end, Lukanisman pledged RM10,000 from his constituency fund and an additional RM10,000 in his capacity as Deputy Health Minister.
The event also saw contributions from Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Sebastian Ting, who announced RM10,000 in support of PMM's activities, along with RM120,000 allocated under the Rural Transformation Programme (RTP).
Also present at the event were Miri Mayor Adam Yii, Miri Deputy Mayor Ariffin Mohamad and PMM president Abdullah Jaini. healthcare sector Lawas Hospital Lukanisman Awang Sauni Petra Jaya Hospital
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