11 measures proposed to strengthen healthcare workforce in Sabah, Sarawak

Eleven measures have been proposed to strengthen the healthcare workforce in Sabah and Sarawak, with the aim of making postings more attractive and sustainable for healthcare professionals. Senator Dr R. A. Lingeshwaran outlined the proposals, which include better incentives, career pathways, and family support. Key measures include a clear 24-month standard service period, priority pathways for specialist training, and a rural and remote posting hardship allowance of at least RM1,000 a month.

Other proposals include restoring the Regional Incentive Payment based on a percentage of salary and providing advance payments for approved relocation expenses. Lingeshwaran emphasized the need for additional recognition for service in Sabah and Sarawak, particularly in rural and remote areas, and stressed that financial incentives alone would not resolve workforce shortages.

The Health Ministry would also need to ensure reasonable doctor-patient ratios, manageable on-call duties, access to annual leave, and adequate replacement staff.

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