Health Ministry to review transfer appeals from Sabah, Sarawak staff
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the applications would be reviewed carefully to ensure that healthcare services in the affected regions continue to operate smoothly.
"Yes, we are definitely looking into it.
"The ministry is currently processing valid applications.
"They are taking this seriously and are considering the right approach.
"That's why it's important to find the right formula," he told reporters after attending the launch of the book "Crisis and Community: Covid-19 in Malaysia" here today.
His remarks follow the recent disclosure by Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, who said that approximately 600 healthcare personnel in Sabah and Sarawak had submitted appeal letters requesting transfers out of the states.
Lukanisman said the ministry is facing challenges in safeguarding the right to healthcare for residents in Sabah and Sarawak due to this development.
Dzulkefly said the ministry is also exploring the possibility of increasing incentives as part of efforts to reduce the number of healthcare workers requesting transfers out of the two states.
"We are looking into how we can improve incentives.
"There will always be some who find it difficult to commit to staying there long-term, but we are aware of the situation and are doing our best to address it.
"We are considering better remuneration and a range of other incentives to encourage healthcare workers to remain in these areas."
He also clarified that the ministry is not implementing a new system for processing transfer requests but is instead relying on the existing mutual agreement arrangement.
He said a portion of healthcare workers may still be reluctant to remain in Sabah and Sarawak.
"As you know, there will always be a small group, maybe 1 to 20 per cent, who just have to bite the bullet. I understand it's not easy.
"But let me tell you, I've seen many success stories.
"During my last visit to Hospital Mesra Bukit Padang, for example, I met staff who were initially reluctant and even refused to go when first assigned.
"Now, they're entering their 10th year of service there and still going strong."
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