PUTRAJAYA – The cabinet agreed yesterday to establish a high-level committee to deal with the hot-button issue of contract doctors, said Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
In a statement today, she said the committee will comprise representatives of several ministries and agencies, including Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.
There were rumours of a strike by contract doctors from April 3 to 5, and the @mogokdoktormsia Instagram page is urging contract doctors nationwide to join the strike or resign en masse today.
Dr Zaliha said the Health Ministry did not have any further information about the strike, but it was of the view that downing tools is not the best solution to problems related to the medical profession or any other professional scheme.
“On the contrary, the move needs to be considered carefully because the health service is a critical service, involving human lives and the well-being of the people,” she said.
In the meantime, she said the government has periodically responded to the problems and demands raised by health workers, including creating permanent posts, sponsoring specialist or advanced training, time-based promotions, opportunities to be promoted to special grades, and creating the grade UD56 for medical professionals, among others.
She said that her ministry is always aware of the arising problems and requests, ensuring they are being examined in accordance with the current issues and given appropriate solutions based on the country’s economic capabilities.
“Therefore, a strike is not the best solution and as public servants, whether permanent or contract, they are subject to the integrity of public servants and public service ethics,” said the minister. – Bernama, April 1, 2023
