Severe shortage of doctors’ quarters in Sabah’s interior, says MMA

The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) has reported a severe shortage of suitable housing for doctors working in rural and remote areas of Sabah, Malaysia. Dr Brandon Patrick Senagang, the chairman of Sabah MMA, emphasized the urgent need for the federal government to prioritize the provision of basic accommodation and welfare measures for health personnel stationed in the interior.

Dr Senagang highlighted that existing staff quarters are either in a poor state of repair or non-existent, forcing medical officers to endure lengthy commutes, which exacerbates physical fatigue, financial strain, and the risk of burnout. Additionally, the lack of nearby housing has led some medical officers to face significant challenges due to poor road conditions and frequent disruptions to essential services such as water and electricity in remote districts.

Dr Senagang urged the immediate repair of existing quarters and the inclusion of sufficient housing in future clinic planning. He stressed that investing in safe housing and reliable basic amenities is crucial for retaining dedicated health workers and ensuring the long-term sustainability of healthcare services for rural Sabahans.