THE Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) has voiced opposition to the proposal to recruit nurses from Indonesia for placement in government hospitals.
Its president, Datuk Dr Adnan Mat, said that the proposal was inappropriate, as many local nursing graduates, including those promoted through the Promotion by Appointment (PSL) scheme, are still waiting for permanent or contract placements, with some having waited as long as eight months.
He added that local nurses have undergone rigorous training, based on standards set by the Ministry of Health (MOH), and hiring foreign nurses who may not meet these standards could compromise the quality of public healthcare services.
“Job opportunities in the public service sector should be prioritised for locals before considering the hiring of foreign workers, in line with the government’s policy of putting citizens first,” he said in a statement reported by Bernama, today.
Adnan added that local nurses are more attuned to the country’s culture, religion and social sensitivities, which helps minimise communication barriers, supports treatment practices aligned with local values, and fosters better relationships with patients and their families.
Cuepacs, he said, hopes that MOH will focus on expediting the appointment process for local nurses, and implement long-term measures, such as increasing nurse trainee intake at MOH training institutions, expanding PSL opportunities, and enhancing incentives and facilities for local nurses.
He added that Cuepacs is also prepared to engage with MOH to find the best solution to address the current nurse shortage, without compromising employment opportunities and the welfare of local nurses.
On Tuesday, the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru proposed strategic cooperation with hospitals in Malaysia to allow Indonesian nurses to serve in the country, noting that nearly 70 per cent of international patients in Johor, Melaka, Penang and Kuala Lumpur are from Indonesia. – August 8, 2025
