THE state government, through the state Health Department (JKNPP), is working closely with the Health Ministry (MOH) to strengthen public healthcare infrastructure in Penang by reconstructing, repairing, and upgrading clinics in poor condition.

This includes the Klinik Desa Padang Menora located in Tasek Gelugor, which resumed operations on Jan 20.

State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi shared this with Buletin Mutiara when contacted for comments on the clinic’s reopening.

He added that a similar reconstruction project involving the Klinik Desa Permatang Tok Mahat in Nibong Tebal was completed last year.

“Overall, the projects in 2024 involve one dental clinic in the Northeast District, one Klinik Desa in the North Seberang Perai District, two clinics in the South Seberang Perai District comprising a health clinic and a Klinik Desa.

“Apart from this, five clinics in the Central Seberang Perai District were also involved, comprising two health clinics and three Klinik Desa,” he said.

On February 27 last year, Gooi announced the demolish-and-rebuild project for Klinik Desa Padang Menora, with an RM800,000 allocation from the Ministry of Health (MOH).

Gooi also shared that the state government and the JKNPP have expressed their appreciation for the close collaboration with the MOH in strengthening the healthcare system in the state.

“This initiative not only upgrades healthcare infrastructure but also supports the long-term well-being of the local community.

“This year, it will continue with the demolition and reconstruction of the Klinik Desa in Batu Ferringhi,” he said while adding that more repair and upgrading works are planned for this year.

These include two health clinics in the Northeast District, one in the Southwest, three projects in North Seberang Perai (one health clinic and two Klinik Desa), two in South Seberang Perai (one health clinic and one Klinik Desa), and four in Central Seberang Perai (three health clinics and one Klinik Desa).

“I truly appreciate the ongoing efforts by the MOH and JKNPP to improve public healthcare services, especially by upgrading old facilities that have been operating with limited resources.

“The state government will continue to prioritise inclusive healthcare development to ensure rural areas are not left behind,” Gooi said.

Apart from that,Gooi said Klinik Desa Padang Menora is officially staffed with two nurses. It is learned that the clinic functions as a supporting facility that provides basic healthcare services, particularly maternal and child care.

“It does not operate as a full-fledged health clinic, which typically offers more comprehensive services.

“However, in response to the growing number of patients in recent years, three nurses have been mobilised from the Tasek Gelugor health clinic since 2018 to ensure uninterrupted service to the local community.

“Although applications for additional permanent staff are submitted consistently each year, they have yet to receive approval from the MOH,” he added.

It is learned that out of the RM150 million mandatory fiscal allocation announced under Budget 2024, the MOH allocated RM4.5 million for development projects involving 11 dilapidated clinics and facilities, including Klinik Desa Padang Menora.

Meanwhile, during a recent survey conducted by Buletin Mutiara at Klinik Desa Padang Menora, several respondents expressed their appreciation for the clinic’s improved and more conducive environment.

According to Muhammad Syazwan Shah Dzulkefli, 31, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) staff said that the air-conditioning installed ensures the visitors’ comfort is enhanced.

“It does not matter whether it is in the city or a rural area if the government wants to improve healthcare, more old clinics like this should be upgraded.

“Such efforts reflect the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of rural communities,” he said.

Full-time homemaker Nurul Atikah Mokhtar, 27, shared that the improved facilities at the clinic have helped change public perception that government healthcare services cannot match those of private clinics.

“On top of that, the nurses here are very informative and dedicated. They often share updates on current health issues in Penang.

“With the measles cases on the rise currently, the JKNPP is offering free vaccinations for children under five. One of the nurses here recommended that I get my child vaccinated,” she said.

Another full-time homemaker, Intan Syafinah Mohamad, 33, also praised the ‘new look’ of Klinik Desa Padang Menora, along with the dedication shown by the healthcare staff at the government clinic.

“I was aware that Klinik Desa Padang Menora was fully closed previously to make way for the demolish-and-rebuild project of a new facility.

“I feel calm and comfortable here because this clinic caters specifically to mothers and children, so it’s not as crowded as the Tasek Gelugor health clinic, which also serves general outpatients.

“Honestly, I really like the new look of this rural clinic, it is now equipped with air-conditioning and other facilities, including ample parking space at the back of the building,” she said.

Intan also commended the MOH, Penang State JKNPP, and the district Health Office (PKD) for their efforts in improving the quality of public healthcare services in rural areas.

Another respondent, who remains to stay anonymous , stressed the importance of addressing the shortage of healthcare personnel, particularly if the issue is also affecting Klinik Desa Padang Menora.

“The overcrowding at government clinics during certain times clearly shows that these facilities remain the preferred choice for many, including those in rural areas.

“To me, this reflects the public’s strong appreciation for the ongoing efforts by the MOH, the JKNPP, and the PKD to enhance public healthcare services at the local level.

“The issue of understaffing must be addressed regularly especially, in rural clinics as it directly affects both the quality of service and the well-being of the healthcare workers themselves,” she added.

Story by Tanushalini Moroter

Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad