THE lack of manpower and construction materials and a Covid-19 outbreak have delayed upgrading work at Papar Hospital, Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said.

She said the process, which began in May 2017, is now 62% complete, and that the hospital is to be ready by year-end.

It will begin operating in March next year.

“Although it is slightly behind (in completion) from our target … we will continue with discussions and monitoring by the Health Ministry, Public Works Department, contractors and other parties to drive this project forward,” she told reporters after a visit to Papar Hospital today.

Also present were Sabah, Sarawak Affairs and Special Functions Minister Armizan Mohd Ali, Sabah Community Development and People’s Well-being Minister James Ratib, and Sabah Health Director Dr Rose Nani Mudin.

Dr Zaliha said besides Papar Hospital, Beaufort Hospital and Sikuati Hospital have been categorised as “sick projects”, and are being upgraded as well. 

The Papar Hospital upgrading project was approved at a cost of RM98.5 million to construct wards and add more beds. – Bernama, April 8, 2023.