No U-turn: Ex-minister Dr Zaliha says she has backed Health Service Commission proposal since 2023

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 — Former Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa has firmly denied reports suggesting she has changed her stance on the proposal to establish a Health Service Commission, asserting she has remained committed to the initiative since 2023. Dr Zaliha clarified that a recent health portal report inaccurately portrayed her as having reversed her position and that her dedication to the matter persisted throughout her tenure at the Ministry of Health (MOH).

She emphasized that discussions on the proposal began as early as February 2023, when she publicly stated it was among the key matters considered in the final draft of the Health White Paper. In April 2023, the same portal reported on her meeting with representatives of Hartal Doktor Kontrak (HDK), during which the proposal was discussed as part of the White Paper framework.

Her parliamentary reply on June 15, 2023, which was allegedly misinterpreted, clarified the scope of authority for a Service Commission under Article 144 of the Federal Constitution. Dr Zaliha emphasized that while the commission could handle appointments, confirmation, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary actions, it would not have the power to create new posts or determine remuneration systems.

She explained that establishing a new Service Commission would require amending the Federal Constitution and securing a two-thirds majority in both the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara. Despite these complexities, Dr Zaliha reiterated her commitment to the commission's establishment, citing records that indicated the government's intention was confirmed in July 2023.

She also mentioned the formation of a Technical Working Group by MOH in October 2023 to determine the best methods for creating the Health Service Commission. Dr Zaliha's position on healthcare worker welfare remained unchanged, emphasizing the urgent need for reform, backed by an authority capable of addressing the crises faced by healthcare personnel.