Listen to the article
Bukit Mertajam Hospital officials have forcefully denied circulating social media claims that the facility would be relocated to avoid disrupting a nearby temple, describing the allegations as “false, baseless, misleading and malicious.”
The hospital’s Board of Visitors spokesperson, Ng Yi Cheah, filed a police report Saturday regarding a social media post titled “Hospital Bukit Mertajam akan dipindahkan agar tak ganggu kuil – Steven Sim Chee Keong” (Bukit Mertajam Hospital will be relocated so as not to disturb a temple – Steven Sim Chee Keong) that appeared online March 22.
“The post is untrue, defamatory and clearly intended to mislead the public,” Ng said in a statement after submitting the report at Seberang Perai Tengah police headquarters.
Ng specifically refuted claims involving Bukit Mertajam Member of Parliament Steven Sim, clarifying that during Sim’s September 14, 2025 visit to the hospital, no discussions about temple-related issues occurred. Instead, conversations focused exclusively on enhancing healthcare facilities to accommodate growing patient numbers.
The controversy comes amid ongoing plans to expand the hospital’s capacity. Since 2023, officials have been developing proposals for an additional hospital block to manage increasing patient loads, including those from neighboring Kulim district.
“The plans did not include relocating the hospital,” Ng emphasized. “The proposal was to construct a new building as an addition to the existing facility.”
The Penang state government has already allocated eight acres of land for the expansion project, which is currently under review by Malaysia’s Ministry of Health. The expansion represents a significant investment in the region’s healthcare infrastructure, addressing growing demands on medical services in Seberang Perai.
Hospital administrators expressed particular concern about the inflammatory nature of the false allegations, noting they contained “elements of racial and religious incitement” with potential to spark unnecessary public anxiety and community tensions.
“We urge the authorities to investigate the person who posted these false allegations and take firm action under existing laws for defamation, incitement, and the spread of false information,” Ng stated.
Malaysia has increasingly faced challenges with religiously and racially charged misinformation spreading through social media channels. The government has enacted several measures to combat false information, including the Communications and Multimedia Act and more recent legislation targeting digital misinformation.
Bukit Mertajam Hospital serves as a critical healthcare facility in mainland Penang, catering to the diverse population of Seberang Perai. Located in one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing regions, the hospital has experienced mounting pressure on its services as the area’s population has expanded.
Ng reiterated that the hospital remains committed to serving all communities regardless of race or religion, emphasizing that “the expansion plan is solely for the benefit of the public and not for any particular group.”
Healthcare infrastructure development has become a priority across Malaysia as the country works to improve medical services, particularly in rapidly developing regions outside major urban centers. The Bukit Mertajam Hospital expansion represents part of this broader national initiative.
The hospital’s Board of Visitors pledged to continue collaboration with hospital administration, state authorities, and the federal Health Ministry to ensure the expansion project proceeds smoothly despite the misinformation challenge.
Authorities have not yet commented on whether they have identified the source of the false social media claims or what specific actions might be taken against those responsible for spreading the misinformation.
Fact Checker
Verify the accuracy of this article using The Disinformation Commission analysis and real-time sources.
10 Comments
It’s concerning to see such baseless allegations circulating online. I appreciate the hospital taking a firm stance and setting the record straight through formal channels. Maintaining public trust is critical, especially for essential healthcare providers.
I agree, the hospital’s swift action to address these false claims is the right move. Providing clear, factual information helps dispel misinformation and reassures the community that the hospital’s priorities are focused on serving patients.
Interesting to see the hospital taking a firm stance against these false claims. Transparency and open communication are crucial for maintaining public trust, especially in sensitive matters involving community sites.
I agree, it’s good the hospital is addressing these allegations head-on through official channels. Spreading misinformation can be very damaging, so setting the record straight is the responsible approach.
Relocating a hospital is a major undertaking, so I’m not surprised there’s public concern about potential impacts. But it’s reassuring to hear the hospital denying any temple-related motives and focusing solely on expanding care capacity.
True, expansions and relocations often raise questions, so it’s wise for the hospital to provide clear explanations. Sticking to the facts and addressing concerns directly is the best way to maintain community confidence.
This highlights the importance of verifying claims, especially on social media. I’m glad the hospital took prompt legal action to refute the misleading post and protect its reputation. Transparency goes a long way in these situations.
Absolutely, fact-checking and responsible reporting are crucial. The hospital’s decisive response helps counter the spread of false narratives and demonstrates its commitment to serving the community effectively.
This situation highlights the need for improved media literacy and fact-checking, especially on social media. I’m glad the hospital is taking legal steps to counter the misleading post and protect its reputation. Transparent communication is key in these sensitive matters.
Well said. The hospital’s proactive approach to refuting the false claims sends a strong message that it values honesty and accountability. Maintaining public trust is essential, especially for critical healthcare institutions.