Patients endure sweltering conditions at new Miri City Health Clinic, MP to raise in Parliament

MIRI (Dec 12): Miri MP Chiew Choon Man has voiced concern over the sweltering conditions at the new Miri City Health Clinic, following repeated complaints about its malfunctioning air-conditioning system.

Chiew said many patients have reported waiting and receiving treatment in a crowded, enclosed space made increasingly uncomfortable by the heat.

He noted that those seeking care often the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals already feeling unwell.

“We must put ourselves in the shoes of the patients.

“They come to the clinic already sick, some with fever and breathing difficulties. Yet they are forced to wait in hot and stifling conditions. This is unacceptable,” he said in a statement.

While acknowledging the temporary measures of Miri Divisional Health Officer Dr P. Raviwharmman Packierisamy and the clinic staff, including the provision of air coolers, Chiew expressed disappointment over repeated air-conditioning failures and visible structural issues such as peeling wall paint at a facility that has been in operation for less than two years.

“For a newly built healthcare facility, this should not be happening,” he said.

Chiew said he will raise the matter in Parliament and seek a detailed explanation from the Public Works Department (JKR) regarding monitoring and project management of the clinic’s construction.

“Government projects funded by public money must result in facilities that are safe, high-quality and durable. Any weaknesses in the process must be identified and rectified immediately,” he added.

The MP also said he will continue working closely with Dr Ravi and the Miri Divisional Health Office to find swift solutions, including securing additional funds to improve ventilation and the air-conditioning system.

“My priority is to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for patients and healthcare workers so treatment can be provided effectively,” he said, assuring residents that he will continue monitoring the issue and provide updates.