Senator seeks probe into major leaks at new hospital block

A senator has called for an investigation into significant leaks and water overflow at the recently completed block of Seberang Jaya Hospital, which was handed over to the health ministry just a year ago. Dr. RA Lingeshwaran expressed concern over leaks in multiple areas of Block B after heavy rain last Saturday. He questioned how staff members were observed using umbrellas while navigating a corridor, describing the situation as "serious" given that a new building should be able to withstand any rainfall or inclement weather.

Lingeshwaran noted that the new block's defect liability period ended on April 12, meaning the ministry would be responsible for repairing the damage. He suggested that the probe should investigate potential issues with design, engineering, construction quality, and the drainage system. Lingeshwaran emphasized that there is a risk of similar incidents affecting wards, medical equipment, electrical supply, or critical care areas, and urged the ministry to act swiftly to determine the cause of the incident and assess the resulting damage.

The ministry has acknowledged the major leaks from ceilings and unusual rainwater overflow in several locations, affecting both the new Block B and the older Block A. They confirmed that the incident did not compromise patient safety or medical equipment, and that hospital personnel took necessary measures to manage patients and protect equipment.

The Penang health department stated that no similar incidents had been reported before November 7, and that the hospital's engineering unit and the support services concession contractor are now assessing the damage and implementing corrective measures.