Shift work exemption a meaningful recognition for medical frontliners, says Dzulkefly
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad expressed the ministry's heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the move.
'The Ministry welcomes the decision to maintain the current 42-hour work week for five critical service schemes.
'This is a form of acknowledgment of the dedication and spirit of healthcare personnel who help patients fighting for their lives every single day,' he said in a statement on Saturday (July 12).
The exemption covers some 82,637 healthcare workers from five critical service schemes under the Health Ministry who now need to clock in only 42 hours a week as compared to the initial 45-hour work, as announced by the the Public Services Department (PSD).
From last year, The Star ran a series of articles highlighting the Malayan Nurses Union's concerns that the 45-hour work week may worsen fatigue, stress, and work-life imbalance among nurses already stretched thin by manpower shortages.
Dzulkefly said the decision reflects the Madani government's commitment to valuing the physical, mental and emotional toll endured by healthcare staff.
'This achievement is the result of comprehensive collaboration between various stakeholders, particularly the PSD, unions, relevant associations, and the Nursing and Human Resource Divisions of the ministry,' he added.
Looking ahead, Dzulkefly said the ministry would continue to push for more positive reforms in the healthcare sector, in line with its long-term strategies.
'We hope there will be more good news to come for the ministry and our personnel,' he said, while calling on Malaysians to continue appreciating the contributions of the nation's healthcare heroes.
The Malaysian Male Nurses Association (MMN) also welcomed the decision, calling it a significant victory for the well-being of frontline workers.
In a statement, MMN expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, Health Minister, PSD, and the ministry's Human Resource division in preserving the current work hours.
'This reflects a strong commitment to the welfare of healthcare workers while ensuring continued quality care for patients.
'This decision proves that the voices of nurses and other healthcare workers are being heard,' the statement read.
The association also said the move would allow nurses and other health personnel to continue providing high-quality care in a more balanced and sustainable work environment.
'We hope the decision will enhance patient care, support better work-life balance for healthcare workers, and strengthen collaboration to protect their rights and welfare for a more resilient healthcare system.
'MMN remains committed to working with all relevant parties to uphold the well-being of healthcare staff and enhance the quality of healthcare services in Malaysia,' it added.
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