Batu pahat: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has approved a special allocation of RM1.8 million to upgrade facilities at Sultanah Nora Ismail Hospital (HSNI) in an effort to strengthen healthcare service delivery for residents in the Batu Pahat district.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the allocation includes an additional RM800,000 on top of the original amount, with a focus on upgrading the Visitor Centre and improving existing infrastructure and assets at the hospital. The funds will also cover the procurement of medical and non-medical equipment, along with paving works at the hospital's parking area to enhance the comfort of patients and visitors.

Dr Dzulkefly emphasized that the MOH's main focus is to ensure that healthcare facilities at the grassroots level are continuously improved in line with current developments. He shared this information in a post on his official X account after concluding a two-day working visit to Batu Pahat.

Furthermore, Dr Dzulkefly announced that RM3.421 million has been allocated to upgrade four health clinics in the district. These clinics include the Parit Yaani Health Clinic, Seri Gading Health Clinic, Tongkang Pechah Health Clinic, and Parit Raja Health Clinic, aiming to ensure a more equitable distribution of healthcare resources.

Dr Dzulkefly noted that the country's current stability has enabled the government to manage the economy effectively, despite challenges such as the global energy crisis. This stability allows for continued investment in the healthcare sector for the benefit of the people.

During his visit, Dr Dzulkefly also inspected several key facilities at HSNI, including the proposed site for the Day Treatment Unit, medical wards, the Emergency Department, and the Radiology Department, to assess the hospital's readiness and the quality of services provided.

Accompanying Dr Dzulkefly during the visit were Johor Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon; Sri Gading Member of Parliament (MP) Aminolhuda Hassan; Batu Pahat MP Onn Abu Bakar; Penggaram assemblyman Gan Peck Cheng; Johor Health Department director Dr Mohtar Pungut; and HSNI director Dr Fairoz Azlim Muslim.