KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12- The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will hold its first public hearing session to discuss the issue of increased health insurance premiums and private hospital charges this Friday in Penang.

Meanwhile, the second session will be held at the Parliament Building on February 21.

PAC chairman Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said both sessions were held to obtain feedback from various parties that may affect public health access.

"Views will be heard publicly and will be included in the PAC report before it is tabled in Parliament later.

"After this public hearing session, the PAC will also hold closed proceedings under Standing Order 85 of the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders by calling witnesses consisting of key stakeholders from relevant ministries, departments and government agencies", he said.

He said this at a press conference at the Parliament Building.

At the same time, the PAC welcomes the government's interim measures to limit the increase in insurance premiums, but long-term solutions must also be studied.

The PAC is also ready to assist the government in formulating a comprehensive private healthcare reform through proceedings with all stakeholders.