Health Ministry to expedite permanent appointments for contract pharmacists

The Health Ministry in Malaysia aims to swiftly transition contract pharmacists to permanent roles, collaborating closely with the Finance Ministry and the government. As of July, 3,545 pharmacists were still on contract, with an additional 115 on a reserve list for permanent appointments. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad reiterated this commitment at a press conference, launching the National Liver Health Initiative Roadmap 2026-2030, which will concentrate on screening and risk assessment for liver fibrosis to enable early detection of liver disease at primary healthcare facilities.

This initiative will encompass both hepatitis-related and non-hepatitis-related liver diseases, such as fatty liver disease in high-risk groups with diabetes and obesity, followed by surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Additionally, Dzulkefly confirmed that there are no longer any contract nurses in the public healthcare service, with all nurses now employed on permanent contracts.

This move aligns with the ministry's dedication to maintaining a competitive public nursing service, safeguarding workforce welfare, and advancing career development opportunities. Various enhancements for nurses have been implemented, including salary scale modifications under the Public Service Remuneration System (SSPA), allowances based on eligibility, a 42-hour working week, opportunities for training and promotion, and increased flexibility in placement, including transfers via the Mutual Transfer System (P3S).