(From right) Norman speaks to the media as Chong (centre) and his special assistant Michael Kong look on.
KUCHING (Sept 20): Stampin MP Chong Chieng Jen has called on Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) to provide answers over the death of a newborn boy who passed away after spending 82 days under hospital care.
During a press conference today at the Democratic Action Party (DAP) Kota Sentosa Service Centre, Chong raised the matter alongside the baby’s father, 51-year-old Norman Naroodin, who became visibly emotional, breaking down several times as he recounted the ordeal.
Norman’s wife, who works in the education sector, was too distraught to attend.
The baby boy, born prematurely on Nov 28, 2024, was the couple’s first child after two years of marriage.
Norman works in the property sector, while his wife, in the education sector, was too distraught to attend the press conference.
“What was supposed to be a joyful occasion turned into a tragedy,” Chong said.
“Until today, the family has not received a clear explanation from the hospital.”
According to Norman, the infant was initially placed in a normal ward but was later moved to the critical ward after developing an infection.
On Jan 18, hospital staff informed him that his son had fallen while being bathed by a nurse.
By the time Norman arrived, the baby had slipped into a coma.
The infant regained consciousness on Jan 22, but his condition soon worsened due to a drop in oxygen levels.
Doctors administered multiple medications – starting with five types of drugs, then seven, and eventually more than ten, Chong said.
Despite treatment, the baby’s condition continued to deteriorate. He was unable to urinate, and attempts to assist through tubes and surgery were unsuccessful. He passed away at 11:25 pm on Feb 17.
Chong said the family had filed police reports in January and May this year but had yet to receive a satisfactory explanation.
“All Norman wants is an answer. Why did this happen? Why was his only child given so many drugs? Why was there no explanation when the baby fell under hospital care?” Chong stressed.
Chong added that he intends to raise the matter in Parliament this October to press for accountability.
“We are not here to accuse anyone, but SGH must come forward with a proper explanation. Compensation cannot bring back a life, but at the very least, the family deserves the truth,” he said.
Expressing sympathy for Norman and his wife, Chong said: “This was their firstborn, and he lived only 82 days — all under hospital care. For any parent, this is unbearable.”
Norman, who hails from Kampung Menaul near Serian, said he had earlier sought help from a local elected representative but was disappointed when no action was taken.