KUALA LUMPUR: Sixteen selected hospitals have initiated the first phase of parking management outsourcing, including proposals to construct multi-storey car parks and provide nearby alternative parking facilities to address severe space shortages.

Deputy Health Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said the initiative is being implemented in phases with private sector involvement to increase parking capacity, particularly at hospitals that have been operating for over 10 years.

She said the growing number of vehicle owners has contributed to hospital parking congestion, requiring more comprehensive planning to meet the needs of both visitors and staff.

"Among the Health Ministry's initiatives is proposing that private companies build multi-storey car parks or provide nearby parking access for visitors and staff.