Johor bahru: The Johor government's commitment to enhancing healthcare services for mothers and children is evident in the decanting of services from the Sultan Ismail Health Clinic (KKSI) to a new and more spacious facility in Mount Austin, providing a more comfortable and conducive environment for patients. The initiative, which includes maternal and child healthcare services as well as outpatient screening and follow-up services, was introduced to ease congestion at KKSI, which handles between 1,000 and 2,000 patients daily.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, a drive-through medication collection service, launched at the new premises on Dec 15 last year, has also improved convenience for patients requiring regular medication. For housewife G. Ricneswari, 22, who is eight months pregnant with her first child, routine prenatal check-ups have become a far more pleasant experience. The Desa Jaya resident said the calmer atmosphere and reduced crowding at the new facility allow her to attend appointments comfortably with the support of her husband and mother.

Ricneswari added that the improved environment has helped reduce fatigue and provided peace of mind during her pregnancy and in preparation for postnatal care. Another expectant mother, housewife Anis Sofea Azharudin, 28, shared similar sentiments, describing the Mount Austin facility as significantly more comfortable than the previous location. 'I used to receive treatment at KKSI, but it was always crowded. Here, the environment is much more comfortable, and there is no need to wait for long periods. As an expectant mother, this makes a huge difference. I thank the Johor Government for introducing an initiative that not only provides comfort but also makes things easier for parents and families,' she said.

Project assistant Najwa Hanim Sidek, 32, said the upgraded facility contributes not only to physical comfort but also to the emotional well-being of pregnant women. 'Pregnant mothers get tired easily. When the environment is comfortable, not overcrowded and parking is readily available, it helps reduce stress and allows us to attend appointments in a calmer state of mind. The waiting time is also shorter than before, which is very helpful,' she said.

Meanwhile, Kang Hsia Li, 28, who attended the clinic with her nine-month-old baby, praised the family-friendly facilities and ample parking spaces. The mother of three said she had previously visited several healthcare facilities and found the Mount Austin centre to be among the most comfortable. 'It's not too crowded here. Most importantly, there's plenty of parking. There are also restaurants nearby, while the clinic itself is air-conditioned and has sufficient seating. When you have young children, these conveniences make a big difference,' she said.

For outpatient Chong Kim Seng, 62, the drive-through medication collection service has significantly simplified the process of obtaining her monthly cholesterol medication. 'Previously, I had to find parking, take a queue number and wait for hours. Now, I can simply use the drive-through service, which usually takes only 10 to 20 minutes. It may seem like a small improvement, but it means a lot, especially for senior citizens who require regular medication. I am grateful to the Johor government for this facility,' he said.

The relocation project for the KKSI Maternal and Child Division and the Outpatient Screening and Follow-Up Services (PPUSS) involved a total allocation of RM1.09 million. Since operations began at the new premises on Dec 15 last year, the Maternal and Child Division has been serving approximately 200 patients daily, while the PPUSS receives between 200 and 250 patients each day, bringing the total number of relocated patients to around 400 to 450 daily. To support the expanded services, a total of 33 healthcare personnel were also reassigned to the new facility, further strengthening healthcare delivery for the local community.