Bera Hospital denies link to viral funeral controversy

KUANTAN: The Pahang Health Department has denied any connection between Bera Hospital and a viral social media post concerning the handling of a deceased person's remains at the hospital.

The department said it was aware of a post by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) involved in funeral arrangements that mentioned Bera Hospital.

"The Bera Hospital Forensic Unit is not involved in managing or making any decisions regarding the handling of the remains after the medical and documentation processes have been completed.

"Once the documentation procedures have been concluded, further decisions lie with the next of kin, including the collection and management of the remains by those appointed by them," the statement read.

The Pahang Health Department said it would lodge a police report over the matter.

The department also asked the public not to make assumptions or share unverified information that could cause confusion or create an inaccurate impression of Bera Hospital and the healthcare services it provides.

Earlier, an NGO took to social media claiming that its representatives had gone to Bera Hospital on Sept 28 to perform funeral rites after being instructed by the deceased's next of kin.

However, they were surprised to find another NGO at the premises.

A person representing the other NGO claimed that they had been hired by the deceased's employer.

The person was quoted as saying, "Next time, call first. Do not just barge in. Bera Hospital is my territory" before leaving.