ONLY three out of 73 Malaysian medical specialists working abroad have returned to serve in Health Ministry (MOH) facilities between 2021 and 2025, the Dewan Rakyat was told on Wednesday.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the remaining 70 doctors who came back to Malaysia opted to work in the private sector or with statutory bodies instead of rejoining government service.
“Not all ground is greener next door until they step on it,” he remarked during the policy-stage debate on the Supply Bill (Budget) 2026.
Dr Dzulkefly said that to address the ongoing issue of healthcare professionals migrating abroad, the ministry must continue improving career structures, particularly those relating to remuneration and wages.
“What is most important is for the Ministry of Health to continue refining the career schemes, especially regarding pay and allowances,” he said.
“My team is actively exploring ways to retain our healthcare workforce, including specialists, medical officers and nurses. This is among the measures we are implementing to keep our experts in service.”
On claims that Singapore’s Ministry of Health had been attempting to recruit Malaysian specialists and nurses to work in its facilities, Dr Dzulkefly clarified that the matter had been raised directly with his Singaporean counterpart.
“Frankly, I have contacted the Health Minister of Singapore. Initially, I received confirmation from him that such activities were being carried out by private recruitment agencies,” he said. “He himself expressed regret over the matter. We will continue to engage further on this issue, as this is not the first time I have taken action.” - October 30, 2025
