Ministry defends transfer of Sabah hospital director amid ongoing sexual harassment probe

The Health Ministry has defended its decision to remove a Sabah hospital director from his post amid ongoing sexual harassment allegations. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad stated that the transfer was deliberate to ensure the investigation could proceed without interference from the officer. The allegations were reportedly made by a subordinate at the same hospital, with at least two alleged victims involved, though these claims were not yet verified by authorities.

The Health Minister emphasized that the administrative move did not constitute a demotion for the officer but removed him from his leadership position during the investigation. The hospital director's lawyer, Joan Goh, has challenged the transfer and is seeking clarification from the ministry regarding the reasons behind the decision and the evidence considered.

Kepayan assemblyman Chin Tek Ming and Parti Warisan's Dr Istefan Koh highlighted the case on social media, calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations of sexual harassment and workplace bullying involving hospital staff. The Sabah Police confirmed that an investigation had been initiated following a report in January regarding the alleged incident, which was said to have occurred in October of the previous year.