In a recent incident that has sparked widespread attention on social media, the deplorable condition of wheelchairs at a public health centre in Malaysia was brought to light.
A post, which rapidly went viral, featured a patient’s dismay at the dilapidated state of a wheelchair, specifically its missing footrests, replaced crudely with ropes.
This alarming situation raises serious concerns about the safety and adequacy of hospital facilities intended for public use.
The issue gained further traction when My News Hub shared a screenshot of the patient’s conversation on their X page.
‘How do I want to put my feet?’
The patient’s frustration was palpable as they questioned, “How am I going to sit like this? How do I want to put my feet?”
The image accompanying the text showed a wheelchair conspicuously lacking footrests, with only ropes as a makeshift solution.
Adding to the patient’s distress was the response from a male nurse, who pointed out the lack of alternatives, stating, “Did you bring your own? No right?.. so this is what the government has.. it’s free.”
This interaction underscores the challenges faced by patients and healthcare workers alike in a system struggling with resource constraints.
KKM’s pledge for prompt action
The viral message captured the attention of netizens and authorities, including the Ministry of Health Malaysia (KKM).
The ministry acknowledged the issue and promised prompt action, stating, “Thank you for this information to us. We will follow up with action.”
Not an isolated case
Social media users, while responding to the incident, condemned the irresponsible usage of hospital facilities by some individuals.
Comments highlighted instances of wheelchairs being misplaced, left in parking areas, or even taken home, mistaking them for personal property.
These actions not only reflect a lack of civic sense but also contribute to the deterioration and scarcity of essential medical equipment.
Additionally, several users shared their own experiences of facing similar challenges, indicating that this is not an isolated incident but a more widespread problem in need of immediate attention.
What do you think of this incident? Let us know in the comments.
