MELAKA: Emergency medical services in the state are set for a major boost with the planned acquisition of 30 new ambulances to replace ageing vehicles that have been in operation for more than a decade.
Melaka health, human resources and unity committee chairman Datuk Ngwe Hee Sem said the procurement would modernise the existing fleet and strengthen the capacity of healthcare providers to respond to emergencies more efficiently.
He said there are currently about 40 ambulances statewide, while several of these vehicles have exceeded 10 years in service and are becoming increasingly costly to maintain.
"The tender process is expected to be called next month, with the new ambulances scheduled to be delivered by March next year.
"Besides improving emergency response services, the new ambulances will be equipped with more up-to-date equipment, enabling medical personnel to provide better treatment and care to patients," he said when contacted on Tuesday (June 9).
Ngwe said replacing the ageing fleet was necessary to ensure uninterrupted ambulance services and reduce the burden of escalating maintenance costs.
"Rather than waiting for serious mechanical issues to occur, these ambulances should be replaced to ensure the state health department can continue delivering efficient and reliable services to the people," he said.
Meanwhile, Ngwe thanked Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited here for contributing three electric buggies to Hospital Melaka under its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.
He said the vehicles would be used to transport elderly patients and those with mobility difficulties from parking areas to the hospital's main building.
"The contribution will help improve accessibility and provide greater convenience for patients," he added.
