By Norrasyidah Arshad
SUBANG JAYA, June 8 — Selangor is the first state to introduce detailed guidelines on the operations of postnatal care and confinement centres to ensure such services are regulated and are operating with valid licences.
State executive councillor for local government Ng Sze Han said that the guidelines would also ensure that any planned physical changes to buildings or activities would be carried out safely and under the supervision of local authorities.
To date, Ng said a total of 38 centres have been identified to be offering maternity care services in Selangor, with seven of them operating without proper licenses.
Out of the total figure, 17 centres are located in Subang Jaya, with five ceased operations following the Covid-19 pandemic, four more in Shah Alam, five in Klang, Kajang, and Petaling Jaya, while two others are in Sepang and Hulu Selangor.
“We believe that there are a lot more centres out there that are not registered. Therefore, the purpose of today’s event is to urge the operators to register because these facilities are essential, especially for first-time mothers.
“The guidelines would help the operators to have a better understanding and make the licence application process easier. They will also receive further advice, including selecting suitable locations and other aspects,” he said at the launch of the a seminar on the guidelines organised by the Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) at Empire hotel, here yesterday.
Also present was state executive councillor for public health Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud and some 170 participants that includes care center owners, local council representatives, government agencies, and nursing students.
Ng added that other states would be able to follow Selangor’s approach in order to support the growth of the industry.
“The policy is clear. We include various key components, including suitable locations. The operators can determine whether their location is suitable in meeting the needs of their customers.
“In general, the policy also covers 24-hour customer welfare, including therapy, proper care and recommendations for the mothers’ diets,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Siti Mariah said that the confinement centres would provide support to young mothers, particularly those having their first child.
She said that the state administration will ensure that these efforts are on the right track while also guaranteeing that services are accessible to the general public.
“Today’s families find it challenging to care for moms during the postpartum period, thus this programme helps. We want to remind operators not to limit their attention to five-star care facilities.
“In order for middle-class groups to have access to these services, we must also be able to establish centres that serve their needs,” she said at a press conference after the seminar.
The guidelines were approved by the Selangor State Executive Council in February of last year and are now applicable to all local councils.
Operators of the postnatal services can approach their respective local authorities for further information.
