KPJ Health Bhd's pre-tax profit in the third quarter ended Sept 30, 2010 rose by 16 per cent to RM43.1 million from RM37 million in the corresponding quarter last year.

Revenue increased by 21 per cent to RM436.5 million from RM361.5 million previously amid better showing by its hospitals.

In a statement today, managing director Datin Paduka Siti Sa'adiah Sheikh Bakir said KPJ hospitals continued to perform better this quarter.

'This is due to strong support from loyal customers, improved services and the confidence of new customers in our services,' she said.

Looking ahead, she said, the health industry's outlook remained positive and with the improving economy, KPJ Health was confident its financial year ending Dec 31, 2010 would be encouraging.

KPJ Health, she said, would continue with its initiatives to expand its network of hospitals by adding at least one or two new hospitals through acquisition and greenfield developments.

'We are on track with our plans to complete the new Bandar Baru Klang Specialist Hospital and Muar Specialist Hospital next year,' she said.

She said KPJ Health also planned to open new hospitals in Pasir Gudang and Kuantan in 2012.

'It is also constantly undergoing refurbishment and expansion exercise on its existing hospitals to increase its capacity and services,' she said. -- BERNAMA