Recruit foreign doctors to address East Malaysia shortage, says MP

Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii has proposed recruiting foreign doctors to tackle the healthcare personnel shortage in East Malaysia. The MP suggested that international medical graduates trained in Malaysia could serve as a temporary solution. While addressing the issue, Dr Yii emphasized that the recruitment of foreign doctors should not compromise the development of salaries and career prospects for Malaysian doctors.

According to him, the number of doctors not reporting for permanent postings in Sabah and Sarawak has significantly increased - from 2% in 2022 to 66% in the current month. The Malaysian Medical Association has reported rates of 70% to 76% for both states, describing the situation as an emergency. Dr Yii highlighted the struggles of certain hospitals, such as Beluran Hospital, Beluran Hospital, which currently has only six doctors, and Kudat Hospital with only four doctors.

In contrast, he pointed out that hospitals in Selangor received a much larger number of new doctors. Dr Yii also expressed concerns that the current official no-show figures may not accurately represent the severity of the problem, as some doctors who do not comply with postings might not be recorded as having resigned. The Malaysian Medical Association has called for a review of the incentive scheme for doctors in East Malaysia, advocating for a percentage-based system instead of a fixed payment.