THE Health Ministry has hailed the government’s decision to exempt critical frontline healthcare workers from the newly proposed 45-hour shift schedule, calling it a meaningful recognition of their service and sacrifice.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for maintaining the existing 42-hour work week for 82,637 personnel in five essential service categories under the Ministry of Health (MOH).
“This is a form of recognition for the dedication and spirit of our healthcare staff who help patients fighting for their lives every day and at all hours,” said Dzulkefly in a statement.
He said the exemption underscored the MADANI Government’s appreciation of the physical, mental and emotional toll faced by frontline healthcare workers.
The five affected service schemes include nurses, community nurses, emergency department medical officers, assistant medical officers, and healthcare assistants.
The decision, he added, followed collaborative discussions involving the Public Service Department (JPA), healthcare unions and associations, the Nursing Division, and the MOH’s Human Resource Division.
“This reflects a whole-of-nation approach and shows that teamwork across agencies can yield the best solutions for the people. MOH remains committed to pursuing further positive reforms.
“God willing, more good news will follow as part of our broader health reform strategy,” Dzulkefly said.
The JPA had previously stated the exemption was granted after considering concerns raised by healthcare staff about the proposed 45-hour work week under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA).
The Malaysian Nurses Union (MNU) welcomed the announcement, saying it would improve motivation and wellbeing among healthcare workers.
MNU president Saaidah Athman said the decision demonstrated national leaders’ concern for the welfare of public servants in the health sector.
“On behalf of all MNU members, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister, Chief Secretary to the Government, Director-General of Public Services and the Health Minister for this outcome,” she said when contacted by Bernama.
Saaidah said the union had raised the matter as early as November last year through multiple consultation sessions with MOH, including direct engagement with Dzulkefly.
“We conveyed our members’ views and expectations to ensure the best decision could be made,” she said.
She also called on the government to review the pay and allowance structure for healthcare staff and to consider expanding critical positions to further strengthen the national healthcare system. - July 12, 2025
