Creating safer workplaces to retain Malaysia's nurses

Malaysia's healthcare sector has been grappling with the challenge of retaining nurses, with over 10,000 nurse positions vacant as of August 15. The Health Ministry reported a decrease in the nursing workforce between 2022 and 2024, from 71,434 to 70,234 nurses. Malaysian nurses are often recruited for positions overseas, particularly in Singapore and the Gulf, where they receive better compensation and benefits compared to what is offered in Malaysia.

The issue of nurse retention goes beyond financial incentives, as many Malaysian healthcare professionals are motivated by a sense of duty, service to the country, and a passion for patient care. To improve retention rates, it is essential to prioritize the wellbeing and safety of nurses in healthcare facilities, both public and private. Nurses are exposed to various risks daily, including infectious diseases and physical or verbal abuse, harassment, bullying, and intimidation from colleagues, patients, and their families.

In addition to the physical toll, the mental and emotional well-being of nurses can also be affected by chronic stress and hostility, leading to decreased job satisfaction, increased burnout, and higher turnover rates. The cost of nurse turnover, both in terms of recruitment and loss of productivity, is substantial. A US study found that replacing a single bedside registered nurse can cost around USD 60,090, while hospitals can spend between USD 4.2 million and USD 6.2 million annually on nurse turnover.

To address these challenges, Malaysia needs a comprehensive and formal system to safeguard nurses' safety and wellbeing in their workplace. This should include robust reporting mechanisms for workplace violence and mental health support tailored to the unique challenges nurses face in their profession. By investing in staff-wellbeing programmes, Malaysia can significantly reduce the economic costs associated with nurse turnover and improve the quality of care provided to patients.