The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has raised concerns over a high rate of medical officers failing to report for permanent postings in the eastern Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Reports indicate that some healthcare facilities received no new medical officers, while others experienced no-show rates of between 70% and 76% as of September 28, when the permanent appointments officially took effect.
Dr. Sivanaesan Letchumanan, president of the MMA, described the situation as a warning sign that existing conditions in these regions are deterring healthcare professionals from fulfilling their assignments. He emphasized that the issue extends beyond the distinction between permanent and contract employment, highlighting challenges such as relocation far from family, significant moving expenses, understaffed facilities, heavy workloads, and sometimes inadequate living accommodations and support services.
The MMA has called on government authorities to verify and publicly release official no-show figures. It also urged the government to implement a range of measures to attract and retain medical staff in Sabah and Sarawak. Among the recommendations are financial reforms including a return to the previous percentage-based Regional Incentive Payment, the creation of a dedicated service allowance for medical officers in these states, and the introduction of supplementary incentives.
Beyond financial considerations, the MMA stressed the need to overhaul relocation aid to better reflect actual moving costs, with allowances disbursed prior to relocations. The association also proposed establishing fixed posting durations with transparent transfer pathways for doctors aiming to eventually serve in Peninsular Malaysia. Additionally, they recommended upgrading rural living quarters to ensure they are safe, well-maintained, and equipped with reliable water, electricity, internet connectivity, and transport options. The MMA further suggested that service in rural or remote areas should contribute directly to career advancement, including postgraduate training, specialist pathways, and promotions.
In response to the reported no-show rates, the Health Ministry has urged medical officers who have not yet reported for duty to do so by an October 7 deadline, noting the ongoing placement process for 4,255 medical officers appointed under the second phase. The ministry cautioned against drawing premature conclusions while the placement period continues and called for cooperation to ensure a smooth process.
Dr. Brandon Patrick Senagang, MMA Sabah branch chairman, highlighted the critical shortage of doctors in Sabah, where only 47 out of 138 expected medical officers had reported to duty at the time of his statement. He warned that increasing workloads on the remaining staff risks exacerbating staff exhaustion and attrition, potentially compromising patient care. Dr. Brandon emphasized the need for both federal and state governments to collaborate on comprehensive healthcare system reforms to address these persistent manpower challenges.
Overall, these developments underscore ongoing difficulties in staffing medical positions in East Malaysia and the complexities involved in improving recruitment and retention in these regions.