2026 Ipoh Mum's Guide: Planning to "Balik Kampung" to Deliver? Why HRPB Requires a Red Book!

To all "Ipoh Mali" mums-to-be, congratulations! 🎉

Ipoh is not just a food paradise; it's also one of the best places in Malaysia for confinement (great water, fresh ingredients, and clean air). It is very common for Ipoh daughters working in KL or Singapore to say: "I want to go back to Ipoh to give birth!"

Here, we have Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun (HRPB) — locally known as the "General Hospital". It has the most advanced NICU facilities in Perak. However, we all know HRPB is extremely busy.

Whether you plan to deliver at HRPB or private hospitals like PMS or Fatimah, our strong advice is: You MUST open a Red Book at a government clinic (KK).

• For "KL Returnees" (Transfer Process): If you work in KL but plan to return to Ipoh for delivery later, you MUST ask your current clinic for a Referral Letter. Without this letter, the nurses in Ipoh might scold you or require you to redo your blood tests!
• HRPB's Golden Ticket: HRPB is strict with admissions. Having a Red Book ensures that if you have a sudden emergency (premature labor, etc.), you can be admitted via the Emergency "Green Lane" without hassle.

Step 1: When Should You Go?

• Best Time: 8 weeks - 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• Important Note: Clinics in Ipoh (especially KK Greentown) are packed every morning. If you are returning for "Balik Kampung" delivery, please report to the clinic within your first week of arrival.

Step 2: Document Checklist

Ipoh's zoning is quite specific. Please check your parents' or your own Utility Bill (Bill Api/Air) to confirm your area:

1. Mother's MyKad (IC): Original + Copy.
2. Husband's MyKad (IC): Original + Copy.
3. Marriage Certificate: Original + Copy.
4. Utility Bill (Bill Api/Air): Crucial!
   • Residents of Ipoh Garden, Canning Garden, Bercham (Parts) usually go to KK Greentown (Busiest).
   • Residents of Gunung Rapat, Simpang Pulai, Ampang usually go to KK Gunung Rapat.
   • Residents of Menglembu, Falim, Buntong usually go to KK Buntong.
   • Residents of Pasir Puteh, Station 18 usually go to KK Pasir Pinji.
5. Referral Letter: If you are transferring from another state, this is the most important document!
6. Black Pen: For filling up forms.

📍 Appendix: Where to Open Red Book in Ipoh?

Medical File Sorted! What's Next?

Ipoh's Confinement Centres offer arguably the best CP Value (Cost-Performance) in Malaysia!

Compared to KL prices which can hit RM15k - RM20k easily, Ipoh offers spacious bungalow-style centres at very affordable rates. And the highlight? The FOOD! Confinement meals here use fresh ingredients, famous Bentong Ginger, free-range chicken, and Ipoh's high-quality water for soups that taste amazing.