Special inter-ministerial panel formed to tackle doctor, specialist shortage

Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad says the shortage of doctors in Sabah, Sarawak and across the country requires a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach.

Health minister Dzulkefly Ahmad said the shortage of doctors in Sabah, Sarawak and across the country remains a major challenge that requires a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach involving multiple ministries and agencies.

He noted that the issue of shortages and uneven distribution cannot be resolved by the health ministry alone, but requires collaboration with multiple stakeholders.

“In Sabah, the ministry has taken several measures, including increasing the placement of house officers. In Sandakan, for instance, 42 new medical graduates have been posted to the Duchess of Kent Hospital, and 70% of them are Sabahans.

“I want to see these efforts expanded, as we are well aware of the significant challenges in attracting medical officers to serve in Sabah,” he was quoted as saying by Harian Metro after officiating the Wellness Hub in Sandakan.

On April 11, Sabah health minister Julita Majungki said the state was facing a shortfall of about 6,000 doctors, with only 2,884 in service compared with an estimated need of 9,000.

Dzulkefly said the ministry is also strengthening specialist training pathways and local postgraduate programmes.

He said he intends for permanent positions to continue to be offered to contract doctors beyond this year, particularly for those committed to serving in Sabah and other underserved areas.

Monkey malaria cases increase

Dzulkefly said 357 cases of zoonotic malaria linked to monkeys have been recorded up to epidemiological week 16, ending April 25, including one death.

Tawau, Ranau and Kudat have been identified as the main hotspots.

He warned that the situation is becoming increasingly serious and requires coordinated action amiong the ministry, the department of veterinary services department and other agencies, including the wildlife department, to curb transmission.

“We need better environmental management systems to reduce human-animal interaction. Effective solid waste management is crucial to prevent wildlife from being drawn into human settlements.

“All public clinics and hospitals have the capability to detect monkey malaria and provide prompt treatment as a key measure to control its spread,” he said.