Sandakan: The Ministry of Health has announced the creation of an Interministerial Special Task Force to address the persistent shortage of doctors and medical specialists in Malaysia. Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad emphasized that this initiative aims to tackle challenges related to talent retention within the national healthcare sector.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the task force has been given a specific timeline to develop comprehensive solutions. Dzulkefly highlighted the ongoing issue faced by the ministry, which operates 151 hospitals across the country. He noted the necessity of involving the Ministry of Higher Education, the Public Service Department, and the Ministry of Finance in this effort, particularly focusing on the healthcare needs in Sabah.

Dzulkefly made these remarks during the official opening of the Wellness Hub Sandakan. He stressed the importance of a systematic approach to resolving the shortage, with collaboration among various ministries. Additionally, the task force is considering proposals to enhance incentives for medical officers, such as relocation allowances to encourage placements in Sabah.

He stated that long-term solutions are essential to ensure doctors are motivated to serve in regions like Sabah. Dzulkefly also mentioned the recent deployment of 42 house officers to the Duchess of Kent Hospital in Sandakan, reflecting efforts to mitigate the shortage.

On a related issue, the Health Ministry plans to submit a counter-proposal concerning operational expenditure cuts proposed by the Ministry of Finance. These cuts, amounting to RM5.4 billion, are part of broader fiscal consolidation measures affecting both the healthcare and higher education sectors.