Kuching: Development plans for the proposed Sarawak Cancer Center in Kota Samarahan are underway.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said following the recent construction approval by the federal government, the next steps will include cost and design evaluation.

“Recently, in a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, it was agreed that Sarawak will take the lead in establishing the cancer center, which will initially be funded by the Sarawak government.

“The federal government has more or less agreed, and a specialized team has been formed to evaluate the cost and design. (The project) will later be reimbursed by the federal government,” he said.

He said this at the Satok constituency Aidilfitri rally held at Haji Kamaruddin Hall in Kampung Segedup here today (April 27).

Petra Jaya MP Fadillah further said Sarawak is the only state that has taken the initiative to advance funds.

“This model will be used to develop other facilities (in the state), including aging clinics and schools.

“This therefore demonstrates the Sarawak government’s commitment to securing development,” he said.

At the same time, Fadillah added, the people must strengthen unity and create opportunities for economic growth.

Last month, Mr Anwar reportedly agreed to a new approach proposed by the Sarawak state government, under which the state would start funding the construction of the Sarawak Cancer Center, followed by support from the federal government.

He said the collaboration, which aims to facilitate the establishment of cancer centers to address the critical medical needs of cancer patients in Sarawak, is a “first in Malaysia”.

The Sarawak government had previously proposed to provide a total of RM1 billion to fund the cancer centre, with the federal government responsible for providing medical professionals and equipment.