Penang in desperate need of second public hospital, says MP

BAYAN Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin has submitted a memorandum to Health Minister Datuk Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad for a second public hospital to be built in Penang due to growing demand for healthcare services in the state.

The current public hospital in George Town, is overly congested and it is time for a second government hospital, said Sim, who added that public hospitals are also a preferred care centre for foreign workers.

He said this after accompanying Dr Dzulkefly on an inspection of the Bayan Baru government clinic, which has now extended its operating hours until 9.30pm.

Sim said that Bayan Baru has a population of 389,608 residents with a density of 10,881 persons per km sq.

Majority of the residents are from the working group, comprising of the B40 segment, who tend to patronise public hospitals in the country.

"The distance to the current hospital is relatively far, worsened by the constant traffic congestion. It is about 19km from Bayan Baru," said Sim.

It burdens senior citizens and those who suffer from chronic illnesses.

Bayan Baru is also an epicentre for the aging society of Penang; many old folks who require constant medical attention due to their illnesses, said Sim.

Sim said that the initial feedback from Dr Dzulkefly, was that the ministry requires land, at least 10 acres to construct a hospital here.

Hence, Sim is also appealing to the state government to find a suitable location for a new public hospital in Penang. - May 4, 2025.

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