Johor bahru: The state government has repurposed the Nanyang Market in Mount Austin here into the Sultan Ismail Health Clinic (Maternal and Child Health Unit) for RM4 million. Johor Health and Environment Committee Chairman Ling Tian Soon said the new clinic has begun phased operations and will be fully operational by Dec 15, reducing congestion at the Sultan Ismail Health Clinic (KKSI).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, KKSI receives about 1,500 patients daily, including up to 300 individuals who come for services at the Centralised Drive-Thru Follow-up Medication Supply Centre (PPUSS). Ling stated that the decision to transform the unused building into a clinic was made together with the Johor State Health Department (JKNJ) to address congestion issues.

"We have paid the rent for 10 years, amounting to RM2.4 million, while upgrading works cost RM1.08 million, and another RM760,000 was allocated for equipment purchases. The state government has spent no less than RM4 million for this initiative," Ling told reporters after visiting the KKSI Decanting site.

Ling noted that child health services and the PPUSS were relocated to the new clinic on Dec 1, with maternal services scheduled to move by Dec 15. This relocation aims to significantly reduce patient numbers at KKSI by diverting expectant mothers, infants, and drive-thru medication collection services to the new facility.

"Every day, KKSI receives an estimated 500 expectant mothers and infants seeking treatment. Therefore, we have diverted these services here, which will significantly reduce patient numbers at KKSI," Ling explained.

Ling emphasized that the state government and JKNJ are committed to enhancing healthcare services by providing more comfortable and conducive environments through initiatives like this clinic transformation.