KUCHING: Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) will be setting up ‘Bilik Kasih Wanita’ facilities in three of its wards to enhance the welfare of women healthcare professionals.
Women, Family, and Community Development Minister, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said these will be special areas for women nurses to enjoy more quality rest time, giving comfort and privacy for pregnant nurses, mothers who need to pump milk along with those who need to manage household and family responsibilities.
“Such additional services are being implemented for the first time in Malaysia and will begin gradually at SGH.
“In fact, SGH has 39 wards, but initially, we will establish three Bilik Kasih Wanita which will be in the Maternity Ward, and the Female and Male Medical Wards.
“Since this is the first project, we will monitor its impact on the nurses. If there is a continued need, we will expand it over time,” she said.
She said this during a press conference after the Strategic Partner Sponsorship handover by the National Welfare Foundation (YKN) for Anjung Kasih and Bilik Kasih Wanita at SGH here today (Nov 2).
Earlier, in her speech, Nancy said that the creation of this space is due to the high level of activity of hospital staff who are always busy with a large number of patients daily.
According to her, the ministry felt compelled to create a special space dedicated to women nurses, who are the majority at SGH, hence, its being named the Bilik Kasih Wanita.
“Using a comfortable, well-equipped rest area can help manage fatigue, allowing them to provide the best service and prevent mistakes due to fatigue while on duty.
“We hope this will encourage hospital staff to prioritise health and bring positive benefits in helping to maintain their mental well-being while performing their duties and living their daily lives,” she said.
The Bilik Kasih Wanita was created with a sponsorship of RM76,300 from Perinsuran Brokar.
Meanwhile, regarding the YKN Anjung Kasih at SGH, she added that after 10 years of operation, it has benefited 18,022 people as of August this year.
“There are also several damaged facilities that need repair and replacement, and I am grateful to Amanah Raya Foundation for sponsoring RM250,000 to replace facilities such as beds, mattresses, pillows, cupboards, and essential needs of Anjung Kasih residents.
“This year, YKN has also added a new element by creating the Bilik Kasih Wanita, which will be equipped with a lounge, television, pantry, dining area, leisure and therapy spaces.
“:Alliance Islamic Bank Berhad has sponsored RM52,500 to realise the establishment of this room,” she said.
