Johor Bahru, Malaysia – The Johor state government has announced an allocation of RM5.742 million to the healthcare services sector as part of its Budget 2024. This funding is aimed at improving the quality of health services across the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Health and Unity Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon stated that RM1 million of the allocation will be used to upgrade the new queue system at healthcare facilities, such as the Sultanah Aminah Hospital (HSA). This upgrade is expected to reduce waiting times for over 2,000 daily outpatients and ease the workload of hospital staff. Additionally, RM900,000 has been designated to facilitate the monthly medicine supply for regular patients, utilizing postal services to minimize queuing time.
The Locker4U programme will continue with an allocation of RM170,000. To combat the dengue crisis, which has caused 19 fatalities in Johor this year, RM250,000 has been allocated to the Johor State Health Department.
Starting next year, a mobile medical programme will be implemented across the 56 state constituencies in Johor, with a budget of RM1.3 million. This programme will involve collaboration between government and private hospitals, educational institutions, and volunteers. Furthermore, RM1.9 million will be invested in upgrading 465 pantries in 12 hospitals across Johor, ensuring comfort for healthcare staff.
Ling highlighted the significance of this budget allocation, the largest in history for the state’s healthcare sector, as a testament to the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services. He also expressed gratitude to the healthcare workers for their dedication and professional service.