Board denies viral claim hospital will move for temple, urges action against misinformation and racial incitement
GEORGE TOWN: The Board of Visitors of Bukit Mertajam Hospital has dismissed as false and racially inflammatory a viral claim alleging that the hospital will be relocated to accommodate a temple, urging authorities to take firm action against those spreading such misinformation.
The claim, circulated on Facebook by user Hamly Hadi, alleged that “Bukit Mertajam Hospital will be moved so as not to disturb a temple — Steven Sim Chee Keong.”
In a statement, the board said the allegation was untrue, defamatory and made with malicious intent, stressing that during a visit to the hospital on Sept 14, 2025, Bukit Mertajam MP Steven Sim did not raise any issue relating to a temple.
“His visit focused on efforts to improve hospital facilities for the well-being of the public,” it said.
The board clarified that there are no plans to relocate the hospital. Instead, plans are underway to expand the facility through the construction of an additional block to cater to the growing number of patients, including those from neighbouring districts such as Kulim, Kedah.
“The proposal, which has been jointly pursued by the hospital and its board of visitors since 2023, is supported by the Penang state government, which has provided eight acres of land.
“It is currently undergoing approval by the Ministry of Health,” it said.
Describing the viral post as irresponsible, the board warned that such claims, which contain elements of racial and religious incitement, could disrupt social harmony and mislead the public. It called on the authorities to investigate and take action under relevant laws.
The controversy comes amid heightened sensitivities over temple-related issues.
Activist Tamim Dahri Abdul Razak, who is wanted by police and believed to be in Saudi Arabia, has offered to surrender on the condition that authorities demolish four allegedly illegal Hindu temples, including one within the Bukit Mertajam Hospital compound.
In a separate case, independent preacher Zamri Vinoth has been charged in court for allegedly making statements that could incite public disorder in connection with temple-related matters.
The board reiterated that Bukit Mertajam Hospital serves all communities regardless of race or religion, and that its development plans are solely aimed at strengthening public healthcare services.
The Sun Malaysia
