THE Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has urged every member of parliament to support the proposed amendments to the Medical Act 1971 (Act 50), scheduled to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat today.
MMA president Dr Azizan Abdul Aziz said the amendments are crucial to resolve issue of a parallel pathway programme to specialisation and address the critical shortage of medical specialists in Malaysia.
"We urge all MPs to support the amendment to the Medical Act 1971. This legislative change is essential for ensuring that every Malaysian has access to high-quality, specialised medical care," he said in a statement.
"The MMA believes that these amendments, coupled with proper implementation and oversight, will strengthen our healthcare system and benefit the nation as a whole."
Dr Azizan added that the amendments will benefit the parallel pathway and masters programmes, ensuring that graduates from both routes have a clear path to specialist registration.
"MMA hopes that with the passage of these amendments, more doctors will take up specialisation, which is critically needed by the country," he said.
"They will have the opportunity to choose whichever pathway suits them best, thereby retaining our talents within the system and in the country."
Dr Azizan hoped the MPs will vote "keeping in mind the best interests of our healthcare system, the Malaysian public, and the future of medical education in our country". – July 15, 2024.
