2026 JB Mum's Guide: HSA (Red Building) vs HSI (Pandan), Where Should You Open Your "Red Book"?

Congratulations and welcome to the JB motherhood club! 🎉

In Johor Bahru, we are served by two major government specialist hospitals:

• HSA (Hospital Sultanah Aminah): Known as the "Red Building" (Central Hospital), located by the seaside near the Causeway.
• HSI (Hospital Sultan Ismail): Known as the "Pandan Hospital", located in the busy Tebrau/Mount Austin area.

The most common question from JB mums is: "Can I choose to deliver at HSI because it's newer and nicer?"

Or for those with husbands working in Singapore: "My husband is stuck at the Causeway jam. What if I go into labor at night?"

Our serious advice: The Red Book is your "Safety Net" in JB!

• Strict Zoning Rules: In JB, you cannot simply "choose" your hospital. It depends entirely on the address on your Red Book. If you go to the wrong hospital, you might be redirected, which delays your delivery.
• Peace of Mind for "SG Commuters": If your husband works in SG and isn't around during the day, having a Red Book means your data is in the system. In an emergency, the ambulance will send you to the *correct* hospital immediately, even if you are alone.

Step 1: When is the Best Time to Go?

• Golden Period: 8 weeks - 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• Note: Government clinics (KK) in JB are extremely busy, especially KK Mahmoodiah. Always go early or call to get an appointment date first.

Step 2: Document Checklist

Please check your Utility Bill (Bill Api/Air). This bill decides whether you are "Team HSA" or "Team HSI":

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): The Deciding Factor!
   • Residents of JB Town, Skudai, Tampoi, Larkin usually go to KK Mahmoodiah -> Deliver at HSA.
   • Residents of Tebrau, Mount Austin, Johor Jaya, Ulu Tiram usually go to KK Sultan Ismail -> Deliver at HSI.
   • Residents of Kempas, Bukit Indah: You are in the middle. Please call your nearest KK to confirm.
5. Ultrasound Scan: Photos from your private clinic.
6. Black Pen: For filling up forms.

📍 Appendix: Where to Open Red Book in JB?

Medical File Sorted! What's Next?

The Confinement Centre market in JB is booming and as competitive as KL! The hot spots are:

• Mount Austin / Austin Heights: The "Bubble Tea Town". Centres here are modern, trendy, and surrounded by great food (convenient for visitors).
• Sutera / Skudai: Home to many established centres in spacious bungalows, offering a quieter environment.

Want to know which centre in JB is nearest to the Causeway (easy for hubby to visit)?