Johor bahru: The Johor state government will engage with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to address the urgent need for replacements for doctors and nurses being transferred to Hospital Pasir Gudang (HPG).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon announced that the transfer would involve health workers from various public hospitals across the state. Ling emphasized the need for immediate action to fill these vacancies and revealed plans to discuss the matter with the MOH.

Ling stated during a press conference at the Johor State Nurses Day Celebration 2025, attended by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, that the discussions with the MOH would focus on addressing the staff shortage issue. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the positions left vacant due to the transfers are filled promptly.

The transfers are part of preparations to ensure that HPG can commence operations as scheduled on August 1. Ling mentioned that the Johor State Health Department typically considers offering these positions to personnel residing near the hospital or those who wish to return to their home areas. This strategy aims to facilitate smooth operation at HPG.

Ling expressed the state government’s willingness to collaborate on creating a comprehensive strategy to tackle the staffing issue, involving both medium and long-term plans. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad indicated that HPG’s phased opening would begin with essential services, including Accident and Emergency, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Paediatric Departments.