Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has announced plans to expedite the construction of a new Type 3 Klinik Kesihatan (KK) in Rantau to replace the current overburdened facility, which is 64 years old. The existing clinic operates beyond its capacity, managing approximately 450 patients daily despite its Type 4 classification.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad revealed that the decision to build the new clinic was not a recent approval. The project was sanctioned earlier with an allocated budget of RM46.985 million under the Rolling Plan 4 (RP4) of the 12th Malaysia Plan (MP 12), set for 2024. This statement was made during his visit to the KK Rantau construction site.

The minister noted that the Letter of Acceptance (LoA) was issued to the contractor, Rintiz Rezky (M) Sdn Bhd, yesterday, enabling the commencement of the project. Preliminary activities, such as land work and testing, have already been undertaken, with the construction expected to conclude by July 23, 2029. However, the contractor has pledged to complete the project ahead of schedule.

Upon completion, the new facility will offer a range of services including outpatient care, maternal and child health, emergency services, dental care, laboratory, radiology, and rehabilitation. It is anticipated to serve approximately 75,000 residents in the Rantau region. Dr Dzulkefly expressed the hope that the project would proceed without delays, ensuring timely access to improved healthcare services for the community.