Pasir gudang: The Health Ministry (MoH) is placing special emphasis on strengthening the healthcare workforce at the Pasir Gudang Hospital to ensure the facility operates effectively, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said. He emphasized that the main challenge for any new hospital is not merely the completion of buildings and equipment, but the sufficient deployment of human resources, including medical officers, specialists, nurses, and other healthcare personnel.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dzulkefly highlighted that the manpower issue is a national challenge that is being addressed comprehensively. MoH has drawn up a phased plan to overcome this shortage, including immediate postings to staff the Pasir Gudang Hospital. He noted that there is a special focus on Johor to ensure that the hospital functions at its optimum capacity as soon as possible. This statement was made to reporters after Dzulkefly visited the Sultanah Fatimah Specialist Hospital (HPSF).

The Health Minister stated that the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, also expressed concerns over manpower during a meeting with the ministry’s top management. The Regent specifically inquired about staffing capacity, to which the ministry outlined its plan, emphasizing the need to expedite these efforts as requested by His Royal Highness.

Dzulkefly added that the Pasir Gudang Hospital has begun initial operations at about 20 percent capacity, starting with the Emergency Department. Staffing and other facilities are being added in phases, with the hospital expected to be fully operational by the middle of next year.

The RM380 million hospital, equipped with 304 beds, is among Johor’s key healthcare projects and is anticipated to significantly benefit local residents by improving access to quality medical treatment.