University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) has announced a significant hike in medical fees, effective January 1, 2025.
The new rates posted on Facebook, which cover medical, service, and surgical fees, have sparked heated discussions online.
Fees increase across the board
A user on Xiaohongshu highlighted the stark price hike, stating that follow-up consultations with specialists have risen from RM15 to RM50. Other fees, including ward charges, have also increased significantly.
Ward fees have jumped from RM120 to RM300 per night, making it more expensive than some private hospitals,” the user wrote.
The user also compared the new rates to previous charges, pointing out that the cost for an intensive care unit (ICU) stay used to be RM240 per night, whereas a standard ward now costs RM300 per night.
Official announcement
UMMC confirmed the changes on its official page, explaining that the fee adjustments were necessary to accommodate rising operational costs and to sustain service quality.
The updated charges aim to reflect the increasing demand for healthcare services and the resources required to provide them.
Netizens’ reaction
While some netizens expressed shock at the price hike, others argued that the increase is reasonable and pointed out that UMMC is not a typical government hospital.
“RM50 is still okay. Private specialists typically charge RM300 per visit.”
‘UMMC is directly under the Ministry of Education (MOE) and independent of the Ministry of Health. Its purpose isn’t to serve the public but to handle complex cases, train specialist/general practitioners, and conduct research. Naturally, the fees reflect the quality of training and research focus.
To avoid overcrowding (since they are not obligated to provide public services), they also need to increase research funding and direct general patients to other hospitals. So yes, it’s government-run but not under the Ministry of Health. UMSC exists to retain professors and lecturers at UMMC, offering services at private rates under its private wing.‘
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