IPOH, Aug 9 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Health (MOH) has introduced additional boat services to strengthen healthcare access in Hulu Perak, reducing emergency response times for Orang Asli residents in the Kemar Resettlement Scheme (RPS) in Gerik.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the RM350,000 Medic Boat 8 was vital for more than 4,500 Orang Asli residents in the area, who depend entirely on waterways as their main means of access and transport.
“The 12-passenger multipurpose boat will add to the MOH’s existing fleet of six boats. However sophisticated government assets may be, they are of little value without the dedication of our personnel on the ground,” he said in a Facebook post.
Earlier, he launched the Medic Boat 8 service at the Belum Rainforest Resort jetty as part of his working visit to Hulu Perak.
He also thanked healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses and boat operators, for their continued readiness to brave river currents and adverse weather conditions in carrying out their duty to treat patients.
“Our principle under Malaysia MADANI is clear: healthcare must be accessible to all. The challenging terrain and remote geography of the interior will never be allowed to stand in the way of access to the best possible care,” he said.
-- BERNAMA