Johor bahru: The Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, has called for the expedited full operation of the Pasir Gudang Hospital (HPG), emphasizing the critical nature of the healthcare sector and the pressing need to resolve staffing and equipment issues promptly. This decree was made during the opening of the fifth session of the 15th Johor State Legislative Assembly at Bangunan Sultan Ismail.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad had previously indicated that the HPG was expected to be operational upon reaching at least 50 percent readiness. The Ministry of Health (MOH), in collaboration with the Johor government, is actively engaged in ensuring adequate basic equipment, medical facilities, and human resources before the hospital fully commences operations.
Tunku Mahkota Ismail also expressed appreciation for the Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA) being recognized as one of the World's Best Hospitals in 2026. His Royal Highness attributed this accolade to the joint efforts of the state and Federal Government in enhancing services, facilities, and the healthcare system's efficiency in Johor.
State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon noted that the recognition by Newsweek and Statista validates the ongoing efforts to enhance service quality and healthcare facilities, viewing it as a catalyst for further advancements in the state's healthcare sector. He commended the HSA staff for their dedication to delivering exemplary services.
Moreover, Tunku Mahkota Ismail urged the state government to intensify efforts to reduce the poverty rate to zero, aiming to assist the approximately 6,500 individuals still in poverty, building on last year's successful eradication of hardcore poverty among 4,612 individuals.
On the topic of infrastructure, Tunku Mahkota Ismail stressed the importance of expediting considerations and approvals for the Automated Rapid Transit (ART) project to bolster the state's public transportation system. This development is deemed crucial to support economic growth and accommodate increased movement due to the forthcoming Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link.
Tunku Mahkota Ismail had earlier voiced concerns over potential traffic congestion with the RTS Link's inauguration next year and the pending implementation of the ART project. The proposed ART initiative in Johor Bahru is set to feature 32 stations over a span exceeding 50 kilometers and is projected to cost approximately RM7 billion.