Opening Your Pink Book at Klinik Kesihatan? Don't Make a Wasted Trip—You Must Bring These 4 Documents!
Congratulations! If you've already tested positive for the “two lines” at home, the next big step is to visit a Government Clinic (Klinik Kesihatan) to “Open the Pink Book” (Buka Buku Merah).
Many new parents think: “I have my IC, I can just walk in, right?”
Wrong! If you rush over without doing your homework, you might be turned away for going to the “wrong clinic” or having “insufficient documents,” wasting a whole day of leave!
Today, Newparents will guide you step-by-step on how to successfully get this “Malaysian Pregnancy Passport” so your first check-up goes smoothly!
Still wondering if you should rush to a private clinic for a blood test first?
Hold on! Click to read our previous viral article:
Saw Two Lines? Doctor Says No Need for Blood Test Yet! Save That RM150!
1. When is the best time to open the Pink Book?
Government nurses usually advise coming in between Week 8 and Week 12 of your pregnancy.
- Too Early (4-6 Weeks): You might be asked to go home because the baby's heartbeat isn't stable or visible yet.
- Too Late (After 12 Weeks): You might get a “lecture” (Bevel) from the nurses because you missed the early risk assessment period.
2. Don't go to the wrong clinic! (Most common mistake)
Crucial Point: Government clinics serve you based on “Where you currently live” (Residential Address), not the address on your IC!
For example, if your IC address is in Penang, but you currently live in Puchong, you must go to the Klinik Kesihatan (KK) in the Puchong area, not back in Penang.
Pro Tip: We suggest calling the nearest KK before you go to confirm if your residential address falls under their “Coverage Area.”
3. Essential Document Checklist
Before leaving the house, check your bag for these 4 items (Original + Photocopy):
- Both Parents' IC (MyKad)
- Marriage Certificate (Sijil Kahwin)
- Utility Bill (Water/Electric/Broadband)
*Very Important! Used to prove you live within the clinic's coverage area. If you are renting and the bill is not in your name, bring your Tenancy Agreement. - Latest Ultrasound Scan (If you visited a private clinic previously)
4. The Process (Be prepared to wait)
Your first visit to the KK usually takes 3 - 5 hours. It is highly recommended to take a Full Day Leave.
- Registration: Hand over documents at the counter and get a number.
- Urine Test: Every pregnant mom must do this.
- Physical Check: Weight, height, and blood pressure measurement.
- Blood Test: 2-3 tubes will be drawn to check blood type, Hemoglobin (Hb), HIV, Syphilis, etc.
- Dentist: Yes, you read that right! Government antenatal care includes a free dental check-up.
- Nurse/Doctor Interview: Reviewing family medical history and filling in the Pink Book data.
Got your Pink Book? What's next?
The Pink Book is your most important record throughout pregnancy. You will need it for every hospital visit (even if you deliver in a private hospital), so keep it safe!
Looking for a “Private Ob-Gyn” for a detailed scan with less waiting time?
Or are you ready to start scouting for a Confinement Centre?
