TAWAU:  Sabah Health and People’s Wellbeing Minister cum Tanjung Papat assemblyman Datuk Frankie Poon Ming Fung said the number of dengue cases has spiked slightly in recent months at Tawau hospital and that some of the patients are from Semporna.

He said the fact that cases are increasing daily at the hospital is worrying and, his ministry would to hold in-depth discussions shortly to seek a long-term solution.

Varied programmes and campaigns would also be planned to raise awareness on dengue prevention he told reporters after a working visit to the hospital Monday. Also present were state assistant minister cum Sri Tanjong assemblyman Datuk Jimmy Wong, Sri Tanjong community development unit leader Koo Hung Eow, Sri Tanjong Chief Development Officer Woo Soon Fatt and team members.

On the parking problem at Tawau hospital, Frankie said he would bring this up for discussion in his Ministry while also look into the proposal to build a multi-storey car park combined with other necessary facilities on a 3.9-acre site land next to hospital. He said, the mammogram screening machine is expected to arrive middle of this year.

On other matter, Frankie disclosed that the RM10 million reconstruction of the Air Panas Old Folks’ Home here is being implemented and it is expected to be completed by 2020.

He described the project as excellent for residents of Tawau, who would enjoy better and more comfortable facilities. The existing old buildings would be demolished and staff quarters and administrative building built  under the second phrase.

He said once completed, the new building can accommodate more than 80 occupants at one time compared to the current 40. He said it is the government’s priority to ensure the convenience of senior citizens and that the community can continue to live actively and enjoy affection.

On the Coronavirus, Frankie reminded the public to maintain personal hygiene at all times and avoid crowded spaces. The state Health Ministry is also monitoring the supply of face masks in the market and conducting checks to ensure that nobody takes advantage by hiking the prices of face mask.