BUKIT MERTAJAM: The Bukit Mertajam Hospital has won a regional award for sustainability, beating out 139 other hospitals in Asia.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said in a post on Friday (Sept 12) that the hospital was awarded the inaugural Most Sustainable Hospital Award at the Hospital Management Asia Awards 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
"This year’s competition drew 399 entries from 140 hospitals across 14 countries, yet Bukit Mertajam Hospital’s journey of 135 years of eco-friendly healthcare stood out," he said in a post on X.
He said the hospital’s winning initiatives included retrofitting air-conditioning and switching to LED lighting.
It also has zero-waste programmes covering food, e-waste, composting, cotton recycling and even a zero-waste public toilet.
The hospital was also recognised for its carbon reduction initiatives of planting 1,100 trees and reducing empty ambulance rides.
It has also cultivated hydroponic edible gardens and introduced biodegradable food trays for patients.
Dr Dzulkefly said he hopes that this achievement would lead to more Malaysian hospitals championing sustainable practices.
"Bukit Mertajam Hospital has proven that our public hospitals can lead globally, delivering safe, quality care while building climate-conscious health systems.
"Congratulations to the hospital director and entire team of Bukit Mertajam Hospital.
"Kudos to the director and team of the Penang health department," he said.
Senator Datuk Seri Dr RA Lingeshwaran in a post on his Facebook page congratulated Dr Prashant Subramanian, who is the Bukit Mertajam hospital director, and his staff on their award.
"Their achievement is proof of their commitment to sustainability and quality of health services, while bringing glory to the country at a regional level," he said.
