CONSTRUCTION of the RM380mil Hospital Pasir Gudang (HPG) has been completed, with the facility set to begin operations soon.
Johor health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the hospital’s construction had begun in 2020.
However, there were significant setbacks due to the Covid-19 pandemic and other restrictions that followed.
“Despite these challenges, the 304-bed hospital’s physical structure has now been completed.
“It is equipped with 14 specialist departments and modern equipment,” he told StarMetro.
Ling added that the Health Ministry had allocated an extra RM81mil for the purchase of medical and non-medical equipment for HPG.
He explained that some of the medical equipment and systems are still being installed, and will be inspected by ministry officials.
These checks will help ensure that the equipment and systems adhered to stipulated medical, technical and engineering standards.
The Public Works Department (JKR) will also be testing the hospital’s built infrastructure systems to ensure they are in working condition, Ling said, adding that the tests are expected to be completed by mid-June.
“After the testing period, the hospital will be handed over to the ministry.
“As soon as possible afterwards, HPG will begin operations in phases.
“To date, 1,845 healthcare positions have been approved for the hospital and efforts are underway to fill more vacancies where needed,” he said.
Ling also said that he had accompanied Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad on a site visit to HPG.
Pasir Gudang resident Robert Ting said he is looking forward to HPG’s opening as it could help ease congestion at Hospital Sultan Ismail (HSI), a government hospital in Taman Mount Austin located close to Johor Baru city centre.
“HSI is quite crowded because it caters to patients from a large area.
“I recently had a 10am appointment and had to wait until 1pm for my turn to see the doctor.”
Another patient, Robiah Abdullah, said HPG could help patients save time and commuting costs.
“I usually take an e-hailing ride from my home in Bandar Seri Alam, Masai, to HSI.
“This costs up to RM20 each way; HPG, on the other hand, is located near my house.
“So, it is definitely more convenient if I can be referred to HPG for future appointments,” she said.
