THE Penang legislative assembly was told today that most post-natal confinement centres for mothers in the state are unlicensed.

State local government executive councillor Jagdeep Singh Deo said only nine confinement centres in Seberang Prai are licensed, while two more on the mainland and 15 on the island are not.

He said the local authorities will issue notices to the unlicensed centres to close and fine them.

He said where necessary they will be taken to court.

Jagdeep said the Seberang Prai Municipal Council had it guidelines for such centres.

“The state government, through the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), is thinking of making confinement centres on the island follow the guidelines for converting houses into kindergartens, nurseries, childcare centres and old folk’s homes.

“The guidelines were amended in June last year,” he said, in reply to a written question from Lim Siew Khim (Sungai Pinang-DAP).

Lim asked how many confinement centres in Penang were licensed and unlicensed. She also asked whether operators of such centres need to undergo special training, and how the authorities ensured safety in the centres.

Jagdeep said the state does not compel the operators to undergo training, nor does the government monitor confinement centres in the country. – April 30, 2019.