13MP: Recognise doctors' wages and welfare to prevent talent drain, govt told

Focus Malaysia

3 days ago

MCA has called for the government to urgently and comprehensively address the long-standing issue of inadequate wages and welfare for doctors, saying 'medical human resource reform' should be made a priority in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP).
Expressing concern over the systemic challenges faced by doctors, particularly low salaries and insufficient support, party vice president Datuk Wira Lim Ban Hong said doctors who carry the immense responsibility of safeguarding public health are now burdened with heavy workloads and under-resourced environments.
'Many young doctors in the public sector earn wages that do not reflect their qualifications. After covering basic living costs, student loans, and other expenses, some find themselves struggling financially,' he lamented.
'This reality undermines morale and pushes many to leave the public system or the country entirely.'
Lim said this ongoing brain drain only worsens staffing shortages in public hospitals, and those who remain must manage increasingly demanding caseloads, leading to longer patient waiting time and reduced service quality as well as burnout and demotivation among healthcare personnel.
'This vicious cycle threatens the stability of our healthcare system. Doctors undergo rigorous training, face life-and-death decisions, and endure long, irregular hours but yet their current remuneration does not match the risks and sacrifices involved,' he said.
'As a result, many are turning to private healthcare or overseas opportunities, putting additional pressure on an already fragile system.
'We cannot expect doctors to remain driven solely by professional ideals. They deserve fair compensation and basic financial security like any other profession.'
Lim further noted that although 13MP has included a national healthcare development framework, medical human resource reform must be given specific emphasis.
'The government must prioritise improvements in doctors' pay, benefits, and career development,' he stressed.
'MCA recommends that 13MP adopt a comprehensive HR strategy including a review of doctors' salary structures, enhanced welfare provisions, stronger job security, clear career pathways, and strategic resource allocation. These reforms are essential to make the profession more attractive and sustainable.
'For example, the government could offer housing allowances, health and mental health coverage, and more reasonable on-call arrangements.
'Continuous professional development and transparent promotion systems would also help foster job satisfaction and retention.'
In addition, Lim suggested that a 'Medical Talent Return Programme' be introduced to encourage Malaysian doctors abroad to return, supported by tax incentives, research opportunities, and housing assistance.
Collaborations between hospitals and universities should also be strengthened, with scholarships and job placement schemes to maintain a steady flow of new medical professionals.
'A strong, resilient healthcare system is the backbone of a healthy nation. Retaining our doctors means preserving that strength,' he pointed out.
'We urge the government to prioritise these proposals under 13MP and engage with relevant medical and academic institutions to implement lasting, meaningful reforms.' ‒ Aug 13, 2025
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