BUTTERWORTH, Nov 9 — An assessment of the damage and the implementation of control measures are currently underway at Seberang Jaya Hospital (HSJ), following ceiling leaks caused by an extraordinary overflow of rainwater during heavy downpours and strong winds last Saturday.

In a statement today, the Penang State Health Department (JKNPP) announced that the HSJ Engineering Unit, in collaboration with the hospital’s building management concessionaire, is assessing the extent of the damage and carrying out control measures to address the situation.

“The incident, which occurred between 5.45pm and 7pm on Saturday, affected several locations across both the old building (Block A) and the new building (Block B). However, the majority of areas experiencing rainwater overflow were located within the old block of HSJ.

“The incident did not compromise patient safety or medical equipment. HSJ management has taken appropriate measures regarding patient care and the protection of medical equipment in the affected areas,” the statement read.

JKNPP also noted that the Defects Liability Period (DLP) for HSJ’s Block B ended on April 12, 2026. Throughout that period, no unusual rainwater overflow incidents such as the one that occurred last Saturday had been reported.

HSJ remains committed to ensuring that the delivery of healthcare services at the hospital is not disrupted following the incident.

Yesterday, exceptionally heavy rain accompanied by strong winds caused water to enter several buildings at HSJ due to ceiling leaks. While most of the affected structures were in the old block, some ceiling leaks also occurred in the new building.

Penang state health director Dr Zulhizzam Abdullah reportedly said the incident was unforeseen, resulting from exceptionally heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a high volume of water, which led to leaks and rainwater leaking in several areas. Nevertheless, no patients were affected by the incident.

Earlier, videos circulated online showing healthcare staff using umbrellas inside the HSJ building due to ceiling leaks caused by the heavy downpour, which left floors covered in water. — Bernama