After viral umbrella videos, Seberang Jaya Hospital assesses damage from leaks

Butterworth, November 9 — The Penang State Health Department (JKNPP) has commenced an assessment of damage and control measures following ceiling leaks at Seberang Jaya Hospital (HSJ) caused by torrential rain and strong winds last Saturday. In a recent statement, the health department revealed that the HSJ Engineering Unit, in conjunction with the hospital’s building management concessionaire, is evaluating the damage and implementing control measures to mitigate the situation.

The incident, which transpired between 5:45 PM and 7:00 PM on Saturday, affected multiple areas in both the old building (Block A) and the new building (Block B), with the majority of the rainwater overflow occurring within the older block. Importantly, the incident did not jeopardize patient safety or medical equipment, with HSJ management ensuring appropriate measures were taken to safeguard patients and critical medical apparatus.

Penang state health director Dr Zulhizzam Abdullah explained that the Defects Liability Period (DLP) for Block B, which concluded on April 12, 2026, had not previously witnessed any unusual rainwater overflow incidents such as the one that occurred last Saturday. The hospital remains dedicated to maintaining uninterrupted healthcare services in the aftermath of the incident.

Earlier, videos went viral depicting healthcare workers utilizing umbrellas indoors at HSJ due to the ceiling leaks instigated by the extraordinary downpour, leaving floors saturated with water.