THE nation is set to make history with the development of its first Shariah-compliant specialist hospital grounded in waqf (endowment) principles, as Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof today officiated the groundbreaking ceremony of the Semenyih Specialist Hospital (SSH).
The hospital, which will stand on a 2.6-acre site in Mukim Semenyih, Hulu Langat, is designed not only as a high-tech medical facility but also as a model for faith-based and socially driven healthcare infrastructure.
“This is not merely a medical institution. It is Malaysia’s first specialist hospital built on Shariah-compliant operations and a waqf-based financing structure,” said Fadillah. “It embodies both Islamic commercial ethics and social sustainability through endowment.”
The project, led by Highfield Healthcare Sdn Bhd in partnership with An-Nur Healthcare Sdn Bhd as the operator, will feature 261 beds and a multidisciplinary range of medical specialties. The hospital is expected to be completed by 2030.
According to Fadillah, the initiative aligns with the government’s aspiration to elevate waqf as a key component of the MADANI Economy — with a target for waqf to contribute 10 per cent to the Islamic social finance sector by 2030.
“Waqf is more than just an economic instrument — it is an act of worship that strengthens the relationship between man and the Creator,” he said. “Projects like this demonstrate how endowments can be mobilised to serve public healthcare, education, housing, and social development.”
Fadillah noted that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) highlighted the enduring value of charitable endowments in a hadith: *“When the son of Adam dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity (ṣadaqah jariyah), beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him.”* (Reported by Muslim)
He emphasised that the Semenyih Specialist Hospital reflects this concept of *ṣadaqah jariyah* by offering lasting community benefit while also serving as an act of devotion.
The facility also aims to serve as the Southern Medical Gateway, enhancing access to quality medical services for the southern states. Fadillah expressed hope that the development would incorporate green technology in line with the National Energy Transition Roadmap and the government’s Net-Zero carbon emission goals by 2050.
Beyond treatment, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the importance of preventative healthcare.
“Prevention is better than cure,” he said. “Hospitals must also promote healthy living through vaccination programmes, early screenings, and public awareness campaigns.”
He added that investments in Shariah-compliant and waqf-based healthcare services are a long-term strategy to reduce disease, poverty, and social inequality.
“This hospital will not only address physical well-being but is also a manifestation of spiritual commitment and social responsibility,” said Fadillah. “May it stand as a testament to the integration of healthcare and faith in our national development.” - September 30, 2025
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