Malaysia is set to welcome its first-ever Shariah-compliant and waqf-based hospital, with construction underway in Semenyih and a target completion date of 2028. This landmark development is not just about modern healthcare it represents the fusion of Islamic principles, social responsibility, and cutting-edge medical services.
A Milestone for Healthcare and Waqf in Malaysia
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof highlighted the importance of timely delivery at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Semenyih Specialist Hospital.
“I pray for the smooth progress of this project. My principle is always to complete ahead of time, without extensions. The sooner it is completed, the better for the rakyat. Ensure it is delivered on schedule, within the required standards, quality and budget,” he said.
The hospital will be developed on a 2.6-acre site, spanning 783,566 square feet and featuring 261 beds across multiple medical specialities. Operated by An-Nur Healthcare Sdn Bhd, it will also include ample parking facilities, ensuring convenience for patients and visitors.
Combining Healthcare with Islamic Values
What sets the Semenyih Specialist Hospital apart is its adherence to Shariah principles and the waqf model, which ensures long-term sustainability while fulfilling a social mission. The waqf framework allows the hospital to operate not just as a healthcare facility, but also as a community-driven, faith-aligned institution.
“The hospital proves that waqf instruments can be mobilised in healthcare to deliver quality services while generating sustainable returns for state waqf institutions,” said Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister.
The hospital is also designed to serve as the Southern Medical Gateway, improving access for communities across Malaysia’s southern states.
Green Technology and Sustainability
In line with Malaysia’s National Energy Transition Roadmap, Fadillah urged developers to incorporate green technology, supporting the country’s commitment to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This move aligns healthcare innovation with environmental responsibility a first for Shariah-compliant medical facilities in Malaysia.
Waqf Hospitals: A Model for Nationwide Expansion
Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), described the project as a pioneering initiative of Yayasan Waqaf Malaysia in collaboration with Highfield Healthcare Sdn Bhd.
“This hospital serves as a pioneer model for waqf specialist hospitals. We envision that each state will one day have its own waqf specialist hospital, supported by the corporate sector, State Islamic Religious Councils, the Health Ministry, Islamic banking institutions, and other stakeholders,” he said.
The facility will also provide worship-friendly amenities, such as:
- Quran and prayer rooms
- Patient worship guides
- Tayammum (dry ablution) facilities
- Spiritual care support
This ensures that patients can maintain their religious practices even during treatment, reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to holistic care.
