RM2 million for urgent ceiling repairs

SIBU: The Ministry of Health (MoH) is seeking about RM2 million to upgrade ceilings at Hospital Sibu, following issues of condensation and exposed ceilings.

Deputy Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, while discussing the necessity for upgrades, said that a temporary solution had been implemented in one ward, but he stressed the need for upgrading the ceilings in the affected wards.

He also said that the hospital director Dr. Nanthakumar Thirunavukkarasu had submitted a proposal for the required funds.

“MoH will give full attention to this matter, and efforts will be made to secure the necessary funding,” he said during a press conference at the hospital today (Jan 16).

Meanwhile, Dr. Nanthakumar identified Wards 11, 17, and 26 as the most affected.

“The condensation issue arises when we upgrade the ward above. For example, upgrading Ward 11 to an infectious disease ICU post-COVID, where the temperature is kept at 17-18 degrees Celsius, causes condensation in the lower ward,” he said.

He emphasised the need for both short-term and long-term solutions, including modifying renovations and replacing the over 30-year-old chill water pipe.

The issue gained widespread attention last November when viral social media posts highlighted exposed ceilings and mold growth in Ward 26, raising public and patient concerns.