PASIR MAS: After more than 30 years of dedicated service, a doctor in Rantau Panjang is reluctantly closing his clinic by the end of the year due to the relentless impact of floods, which have caused him significant financial strain.
Dr Yasiman Yusof, 66, who opened the town’s first private clinic over three decades ago, has faced more than 30 floods during that time, each one resulting in thousands of ringgit in losses. Despite his efforts to keep the clinic running, the rising costs of repairs and replacing equipment have made it increasingly difficult to continue.
"Every time there's a flood, at least RM10,000 goes into repairs. This year, it’s expected to be even worse, as the water level reached its highest point ever, damaging even more of the clinic’s equipment," he said.
He added that the increasing number of private clinics in Rantau Panjang, now totalling seven, has made it harder to maintain the clinic's viability.
"After much consideration, I've decided it's time to retire and close the clinic by the end of this year," Dr Yasiman told Bernama.
Before his clinic was flooded last Thursday, Dr Yasiman had already moved valuable medications and equipment to his home in Gual Tinggi, which escaped the floodwaters.
"In my 30 years of running the clinic, this is the highest floodwater level I’ve seen. The water rose very quickly, and with Sungai Golok only 50 metres from the clinic, it didn’t take long to reach us," he added.
Relocating the clinic would require at least RM100,000 to establish a new location, a cost Dr Yasiman believes isn’t worth the investment.
"After much thought, I’ve decided it’s time to close the clinic," he added.
His decision to retire is especially emotional, as the clinic played a key role in supporting his family. Through the clinic, Dr Yasiman successfully raised seven children - six of whom are studying abroad, while the youngest is sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) this year.
"It’s a tough decision, but this clinic allowed me to send my children to school, and some have even become doctors and teachers," he said, reflecting on the personal significance of the clinic.
The clinic’s journey began in 1990 when Dr Yasiman resigned from his government hospital position and rented the premises to start his practice.
Meanwhile, a check by Bernama in Rantau Panjang found the area now accessible by road after being isolated for about six days, during which only boats and trucks could pass.
As floodwaters began to recede, residents started cleaning their homes, though some areas remained submerged.
Despite the improving situation, the weather continues to be rainy, and the water level in Sungai Golok is still above the danger threshold. - Bernama
TAGS: doctor, flood, close, clinic, Rantau Panjang
