Jom Mahjong aims to introduce all Malaysians to the joys of playing the traditional tile game of skill, strategy and luck. (Terence Toh @ FMT Lifestyle)

KUALA LUMPUR: A hospital might seem like the last place you would expect to hear the lively click-clack of mahjong tiles.

Yet just recently, that familiar sound filled the air as Malaysians young and old sat around tables, shuffling tiles, arranging their hands and pondering their next move.

Laughter and friendly chatter abounded as experienced players faced off against newcomers, who were still learning the ins and outs of pongs, chows and kongs.

The session, held in conjunction with World Alzheimer’s Month, was organised by Pantai Hospital and Gray Matter Solutions alongside Jom Mahjong, which bills itself as Malaysia’s first social mahjong club.